The national young farmer contest is underway in Gore, and first up has been a workout of the brain.
The seven regional winners, including three previous grand final contestants, are competing for more than $100,000 in prizes and the prestige of becoming the national title holder.
Event spokesperson Kate Taylor says the three days of intense competition started with a technical challenge at the Moth and Croyden Heritage Aircraft company at Mandeville.
Contestants have to do a business plan for a farm, interview the farmer, settle a dispute and complete an interview with a panel that includes acting Prime Minister Bill English.
