Four pupils from Enniskillen Royal Grammar School were crowned the overall winners of the 2025 ABP Angus Youth Challenge at an awards ceremony and exhibition held at Balmoral Park recently. The team impressed the judges with their project “One Health: The Link Between Animal, Human and Plant Health,” which tackled the critical issue of soil health.

The competition judges described the project as “an outstanding example of research applied to deliver real benefits.” They said: “The team tackled soil health in a way that was practical, relevant and impactful.”

Conor Phair, Mackenzie Wilson, Jenson Lindsay and Alfie Thompson also organised a ‘Healthy Soil, Healthy Future’ conference attended by more than 130 farmers and industry guests. The group raised £6,540 for Air Ambulance NI and Rural Support during their time as finalists in the ABP Angus Youth Challenge.

The winners received the ABP Angus Youth Challenge Cup and a further £1,000 cash prize for their school. Throughout the past year all four finalist teams have been rearing Angus cross calves which were awarded to all finalists. Earlier this month they were able to sell their finished cattle to ABP and retain the proceeds for themselves.

Markethill High School was named runners-up. The Outstanding Individual Achievement Award went to Casey Jane Creegan from St Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen.

The team from Lecale Trinity Grammar School, consisting of Ben O’Connor, Brent Magouran, Christopher Cunningham and Lochlann Hegarty were commended as finalists for their project “Raising Awareness of Animal Welfare Standards.”

Speaking at the ceremony, ABP’s George Mullan congratulated all the finalists. “These young people have shown great pride in local agriculture. They’re exactly what the agri-food sector needs for the future,” he said.

Dr Sinclair Mayne, a leading scientist and agricultural adviser, also addressed the audience, highlighting the career opportunities within the sector.

The ABP Angus Youth Challenge is delivered in partnership with the Certified Irish Angus Producer Group to give teenagers the opportunity to rear Angus cattle and complete a research project addressing real-world agricultural issues. The programme helps participants develop practical farming, business, communication and leadership skills, supporting the next generation of agri-food professionals.