Gimmerburn farmers Tony and Liz O'Neill have won the Maniototo ewe hogget competition.
While the couple have previously won the halfbred section, it was the first time they had scooped the top award and they were thrilled, Mrs O'Neill said.
Their farm comprises 2393ha, which includes an irrigated block at Waipiata, and they had a mob of 1000 hoggets this year.
The Gimmerburn farm has been in the O'Neill family since 1922.
The couple's son, Tim, is the fourth generation on the property.
The competition, which attracted 16 entries, was judged by Blair Robertson and Bill Bain.
The quality was "outstanding" and it was a credit to both the breeders and the district.
It was good to see people breeding "good, sound sheep", Mr Bain said.
The O'Neills' winning flock were great carcassed sheep but also had good wool, he said.
Results were.-
Merino: Allan and Simon Paterson 1, Stonehenge 2, Linnburn Station 3.
Romney: Geoff Blakely 1, Stephen Blakely 2.
Halfbred: Tony and Liz O'Neill 1, Fred Carey 2, Maniototo Homestead 3.
Crossbred: Mark Paterson 1, John and Sally Andrews 2, John Beattie 3.
Ottrey Cup (strong wool): Mark Paterson.
Meville Turton Trophy (fine wool): Tony and Liz O'Neill.
Elliot Trophy (most improved): Linnburn Station.
Champion flock: Tony and Liz O'Neill.