Britain’s Fittest Farmer: First-time entrants get competition-ready

There are just seven weeks to go until the first Britain’s Fittest Farmer 2024 qualifier in June. Plenty of time, then, to kick-start your training and join us for the toughest challenge in agriculture.

The event brings together farmers and others working in agriculture to champion the importance of physical and mental wellbeing.

There are three qualifiers across the UK, starting in Lincolnshire on 19 June. Heats will also be held on 23 June at the Royal Highland Show and 25 July at the Royal Welsh Show, and there’s still time to get your entry in for any of these dates.

To make it to the finals in September, competitors must exhibit strength and stamina in the physical rounds, as well as demonstrate how they stay mentally resilient and help support others in the farming community.  

We caught up with three entrants who have never taken part in Britain’s Fittest Farmer before to find out how they’re preparing. 

Oliver Varley, Durham

Acting as “his own sheepdog” for a 350-strong flock, keeps Oliver Varley on his toes and passionate about the importance of keeping active.  

“Sport has always been an escape for me and a great help towards maintaining positive mental health,” says Oliver, who has entered the men under-40 category and will be heading to the Royal Highland Show qualifier. 

The 37-year-old enjoys rowing, cycling and running, and says Britain’s Fittest Farmer will give him the opportunity to keep fit and have fun.

Team sport has provided him with some of his best friendships, and one person he is keen to beat is friend Andrew Corrigan who took part last year.

“I think it is especially important for farmers who can easily become quite isolated in their line of work. I would encourage farmers or anyone feeling this way to engage in team sport,” he says.

Oliver moved to the countryside at the age of 11, and his farming journey began by “pestering the local farmer to help with his sheep”.

He now works in a share-farming partnership, where he has been helping out during lambing season, as well as taking care of the beef cattle.    

Emily Ashford, South Devon

© Emily Ashford

Retired professional rower Emily Ashford has an impressive sporting portfolio, having represented Team GB in international championships around the globe.

But is she ready to compete against farmers on a Welsh field this summer? 

“I was bullied into applying by a friend,” jokes 32-year-old Emily, but admits she’s very much looking forward to competing in the women under-40s category.

While rowing, she suffered multiple injuries, and had to learn to be mentally strong to get through rehab.

She has since become a sports massage therapist and coached others through dealing with their injuries.

Her main goal is having something to train towards to build back her strength and stamina. “It’s a really good competition to be part of,” says Emily. 

Raised on Bowden Farm in South Devon, Emily is currently on a career break from the Met Police to work with the family’s dairy herd. 

Amy Moore, East Devon

© Amy Moore

Amy Moore grew up in East Devon on her family’s dairy, beef and arable farm. She was forced to give up active farming after suffering a life-changing back injury when she was 18.

Now 46, she has fought her way back to fitness and farming.

“Four-and-a-half years ago, I took the plunge and got back into the farming world – it was like returning home,” she says.  

“I’m now planning for 2024, which is exciting,” says Amy who will be taking part in some epic contests this year, including the Yorkshire Three Peaks, Superhuman Games, Nello 100-mile cycle, a Tough Mudder and, of course, Britain’s Fittest Farmer.

She describes herself as being on a transformational journey with her mental and physical health, and has put herself forward for Britain’s Fittest Farmer to challenge herself as well as encourage other people.

Her preparations for the mixed over-40s category at the Royal Welsh Show qualifier include attending the gym six times a week to do strength and conditioning, primarily for her back.

Exercise for Amy is a great way to feel good and maintain a positive mindset: “I am all for mental health; I know I’ve been through it,” she says.