Isuzu Utes NZ Sponsors World Record Attempt in Women's Shearing

14 November, 2023

Isuzu Utes New Zealand, renowned for their rugged “Tough Bastards” advertising, has announced its naming rights sponsorship of an 8-hour women’s shearing world record attempt. This event, supporting Isuzu Utes’ rural customer base, will feature Megan Whitehead, the 2023 Rural Sports Woman of the Year and Isuzu Ute owner.

Alongside her cousin Hannah McColl, the pair will attempt to break the 14-year-old record for the most sheep shorn in eight hours, currently standing at 903 sheep. Additionally, Whitehead aims to surpass the individual record of 601 sheep within the same timeframe.

This dual challenge isn’t just about breaking records; it’s a testament to the duo’s dedication to sheep shearing and their ambition to carve their names into New Zealand’s rich agricultural history.

Isuzu’s sponsorship originates from its connection with Megan’s father, Quentin Whitehead, a dedicated dog trialist and long-time customer at the Isuzu Utes Southland dealership. Their meeting at the 2021 Southland dog trials sparked a partnership that celebrates the rugged, enduring spirit of rural New Zealand. Quentin’s involvement in the Isuzu “Tough Bastards” television campaign soon extended to his daughter Megan, herself a double sheep-shearing record holder and a proud D-Max owner.

Scott Kelsey, General Manager of Isuzu Utes New Zealand, emphasised the alignment of the event with the company’s rural spirit and expressed enthusiasm for supporting Megan and Hannah in their record attempt.

The event will be hosted at 759 Otapiri-Mandeville Road, Gore, on December 15, and is open to members of the public who wish to join Isuzu in supporting the world record attempt. Additionally, Isuzu Utes ensures that the excitement reaches every corner of the country, with live coverage available on the Facebook page, Shedtalk, and the Isuzu website (www.isuzuutes.co.nz/shearing).