Scott Secures Stockman of the Year Victory

Scott Secures Stockman of the Year Victory

Ayrshire Young Farmer Takes Top Spot in Final Year of Competing

Scott Anderson of Crossroads YFC capped off an impressive Stockjudging career on Saturday in the best way, being crowned SAYFC’s Stockman of the Year for 2026. One of the most coveted titles in Young Farmers and the crown jewel of the association’s National Stockmanship Programme (sponsored by Kepak McIntosh Donald). Scott, 27, was delighted to take the victory in his final year of competing, and to get the chance to return the trophy to his beloved Ayrshire District for the first time in a decade:

“It was an absolute honour, and it will probably take a while to fully sink in. There was probably a little bit of relief in there as well, it’s been 10 years since Ayrshire last won it and a few of us have been close, so to finally get the trophy back to Ayrshire is brilliant.”

He claimed the victory in impressive fashion with a remarkable score of 655 points throughout the day’s competition. All this despite competing in an unfamiliar section:

“I was in the beef section this year which was a bit of a change as I am normally a sheep man! Once I qualified from the morning, I just knew I had to give it everything as this was my last year being able to compete.”

With over a decade’s competing under his belt, Scott is very thankful for what the Stockmanship Programme has provided him throughout his career:

“I have gained much more from this programme than I could put in words! The amount of people I have met over the years from doing it is brilliant and the friendships and memories that have been made along the way will stay with me forever.”

He signed off with some encouragement for any young members who may be just starting on their stockmanship journey:

“Get stuck in and give it a go! Reasons scare a lot of people off but it’s not nearly as daunting as you think. There is so much to gain from getting involved in the programme even if it is just getting a nosey at other farms during practices!”

The standard of competition was very high this year with Scott being joined on the podium by two impressive competitors from Lanarkshire District. Lynsey Currie of Avondale took second place with Carluke’s Jane Lindsay claiming third place. Well done to all three on their achievements.

This year the competition was supported by Kepak McIntosh Donald. A partnership with great appreciation for the quality of stock produced throughout Scotland and the skills require to notice and critique this quality. Martin Tait, Primary Operations Manager had this to say about this year’s competition:

“At Kepak, and particularly at our McIntosh Donald site in Portlethen, we are deeply connected to Scotland’s farming heritage and the people who shape it. Sponsoring the SAYFC Stockmanship Programme is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the next generation of skilled, passionate stockpeople who are vital to the future of our industry. We’re proud to support an award that recognises excellence in animal husbandry, commitment to high standards, and the enduring values that have defined Scottish agriculture for generations. It’s a privilege to play a part in championing young farmers as they build on that legacy and take it forward.

Seeing all the stockpeople throughout the day was a superb experience for myself and the commitment was there for all to see. The enthusiasm from all at the prize giving was terrific to see. The industry looks like it is in safe hands going forward.”

It was another fantastic year of competition and the association would like to congratulate all of our stockjudgers on their hard work and dedication throughout the year. We would also like to thank all our volunteers and staff who help make the competition a reality, whether that be through stewarding, judging, scoring, stock leading or stock selecting, all those who give up their time, skills and expertise for the programme are greatly appreciated.