Zurich Insurance is set to bring extra energy and competition to this year’s National Ploughing Championships with the return of the hugely popular Ireland’s Fittest Farmer, this time in a brand-new format as Ireland’s Fittest Farming Pair, alongside the launch of an entirely new contest, Ireland’s Fittest Sports Club.
Both competitions are free to enter and will be staged across the three days of the Ploughing in Tullamore, Co. Offaly, from September 16th to 18th, with a combined prize fund of €7,500.
Once again, the challenges will be overseen by Ireland’s Fittest Family coach and GAA legend Davy Fitzgerald, who is also currently manager of the Antrim senior hurling team.
“I’m delighted to be back with Zurich this year overseeing the Ireland’s Fittest Farmer competition, which has become a real highlight at the Ploughing Championships,” Fitzgerald said.
“I’m especially excited about the new competition for sports clubs across Ireland. I encourage clubs to get involved, wear their club colours proudly, and show us what they’re made of.”
Visitors to Zurich’s stand will also be able to test themselves in the ever-popular Hang Tough challenge, with open slots running throughout the three days.
Fittest Sports Club – €5,000 Prize on Offer
In a new addition for 2025, Zurich is inviting sports clubs to enter two representatives for the chance to win €5,000 for their club. One member of each pair will take on the Hang Tough bar while the other performs step-ups for as long as their teammate can hold on. The club with the most step-ups over the allocated time will be crowned Ireland’s Fittest Sports Club.
Entries are now open by email to fittestclub@zurich.com
and will close on September 7th at 6 pm.
Fittest Farming Pair – €2,500 for the Winning Duo
Farmers will not miss out on the action, with Zurich reimagining its traditional Fittest Farmer competition into the new Fittest Farming Pair. Following the same head-to-head format, duos will compete for a €2,500 prize.
Farmers can enter by emailing fittestfarmer@zurich.com
A random draw will take place on September 8th to select participants for the live event at the Ploughing.
Zurich’s Biggest Presence Yet
As well as the competitions, Zurich will bring a full team of Farm Insurance, Life and Pensions experts to Tullamore, with one-on-one consultations available on-site throughout the Championships.
“We’re thrilled to return to the Ploughing Championships with our biggest presence yet,” said Elaine Walsh, Head of Direct Farm Sales at Zurich.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with the farming and sporting communities we proudly support. At Zurich, we understand the dedication it takes to run a farm or lead a local sports team, it’s the same dedication we bring to supporting our customers and communities. We look forward to welcoming everyone to our stand.”
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