Behind every quality cut of lamb is a farmer, a farm and a story of dedication, hard work and passion for agriculture. It is a journey that begins long before the final product reaches the consumer's table, and one that deserves to be recognised and celebrated.
On the 31st of October 2026, twenty of South Africa's leading sheep farmers gathered at Silver Lakes Farm Hotel in Pretoria for the Lamb Champs Invitational. An event that brought together competition, camaraderie and a shared passion for producing some of the finest lamb South Africa has to offer.
The Lamb Champs Invitational was originally set to feature a rugby-inspired showdown between South African and Namibian sheep farmers. However, following the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in Namibia, the Namibian team made the difficult decision to withdraw from the competition. Rather than allowing this setback to disrupt the event, the Lamb Champs organisers embraced the opportunity to introduce something new. And so, the BAA-Barians were born!
Inspired by the rugby tradition of bringing players from different backgrounds together to form one team, the BAA-Barians consisted of ten sheep farmers from across South Africa, each representing different farming regions and breeds.
Under the leadership of team captain Anton Nel, the newly assembled BAA-Barians prepared to face Team South Africa, captained by Gawie van Heerden. Throughout the day, the twenty participating farmers went head-to-head in ten competitive rounds, where they were assessed across various categories. While the competition was fierce, the event was ultimately a celebration of the knowledge, skill and dedication required to produce exceptional lamb.
After an exciting day of competition, the BAA-Barians emerged victorious, claiming the team title over Team South Africa. A particularly special achievement for a team that had only been brought together following an unexpected change of plans.
Congratulations to Anton Nel and his fellow BAA-Barians on an outstanding team victory!
The individual honours went to Trudine Leonard, who was crowned the Zoetis Top Lamb 2026 winner and walked away with the R100 000 cash prize. The Lamb Champs Invitational is an excellent example of how an innovative event can bring farmers, businesses and consumers together while creating excitement around South African agricultural products.
For BKB, being involved in an event of this nature is about much more than sponsorship. It is about supporting the people who form the foundation of our agricultural industry and celebrating the important role they play in bringing quality agricultural products to South African households.
We are proud to have supported Anton Nel and Jaco Muller, and to have played a part in an event that celebrates the excellence of our sheep farming industry. Because behind every great lamb product is a farmer with a story worth telling.
