Pongaroa shearer David Buick was placed third in the Bayley’s Open Shears at the Golden Shears in Masterton on Saturday night.
A crowd of a thousand was on hand for the six-man final, which was won by Invercargill’s Leon Samuels.
Samuels was the first South Island based shearer to win the open title in 35-years.
Despite having the fastest time at 16 minutes 16.06 seconds, David Buick lost points on judging, leaving him in third place. Second place getter was Casey Brady from Riverton.
Other locals to place well over the weekend were Woodville’s Laura Bradley who won the Abraham Shearing Woman’s Invitation; and Eketahuna’s Ngaio Hanson, who placed second in the NIWC Wool Handling final.
There is a Strong Wind Watch in place for inland areas of Hawke’s Bay today.
Metservice says northwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed areas during the period between 10am and 6pm.
Thunderstorms and periods of heavy rain are also expected for Hawke’s Bay and Tararua District today.
Meanwhile Metservice, in its Severe Weather Outlook, says strong west to northwest gales are expected for areas of Hawke’s Bay south of Hastings tomorrow, easing late morning or early afternoon.
Motorists are advised to expect long delays when travelling on State Highway 2 today.
Road surfacing work is being undertaken near the Paper Mulberry Café and Te Aute College, with STOP/GO activity between 9am and 3pm.
The New Zealand Transport Agency says delays of up to 30 minutes should be expected with traffic being held in both directions.