Shearing Triumph: Megan Whitehead and Hannah McColl Surpass World Records

In an outstanding display of skill, Megan Whitehead from Gore and her cousin Hannah McColl from Taranaki have shattered two world shearing records in Gore on Friday. Together, they sheared a staggering 1283 lambs, breaking the previous combined record by a significant margin of 380 lambs.

Megan Whitehead achieved a personal milestone by surpassing the individual record previously set by Sacha Bond. Bond, based in King Country, had set the solo record at 601 lambs in Northern Southland last February. Whitehead impressively sheared 686 lambs, setting a new solo record.

The event was attended by former record holders Marg Baynes from Hawke’s Bay and her daughter Ingrid Smith (nee Baynes). They had held the previous combined record of 903 lambs for almost 15 years since 2009. During their record-setting performance, Mrs. Baynes sheared 433 lambs, and her daughter set what was then the solo record of 470 lambs.

Marg Baynes had anticipated the record being broken, expressing no doubts about the outcome. “No question,” she said, “The record will go. We’re glad to be here to see these strong, fit, and capable young women pursuing their dream.” Her statement reflects a sense of pride and support for the new generation of shearers achieving remarkable feats.