Victor makes the cut at last

It was 10th time lucky for Motueka Valley man Rory McEnroe, who cut down his rivals to win both the individual tying and pruning competitions at the Silver Secateurs national finals in Blenheim on Saturday.

The 26-year-old, who is in his 13th year of pruning after leaving school in the fifth form, had finished second twice and third once in the nine years he had competed at the national event, but was determined to go one better this time. "It was a good surprise and my turn. I wanted to stick with it until I got one."

In both competitions, he had 2 1/2 minutes to complete four grapevines. "My timing and speed were right up there. I've had plenty of practice, and I've done it and done it well."

He did the same things during competition that he did at work, but said the secret to his success was not putting himself under pressure during the event.

Mr McEnroe, who has a degree in viticulture, works for himself, but is sponsored by his former employer, Richmond-based contractor Horticultural Services and Upper Moutere grapegrower Driver Projects.

As a sideline, he grows wheat and barley on leased land, "but everything else I do is viticulture", and there is more than enough to keep him busy.

Mr McEnroe's double success earned him $1500 cash and $1000 towards travel, which he joked earned him a few extra friends as he celebrated with fellow competitors on Saturday night.

However, most of his prize money would go to his four-year-old son.

"It's not going down the drain, that's for sure. I've got bills to pay. My son will see most of it."

Gisborne team tying and pruning winners Hira Mahajan, Justin Renata and James Waitti, said they had won for Lucas Ward, the Gisborne boy who died after disappearing from his grandmother's home two weeks ago. His body was found in the Waimata River on Thursday.

The trio, competing for the Pernod Ricard Saints team, said they were pleased they were able to do something good for Gisborne after Lucas' death.

Chief judge Jeremy Hyland said the standard of work shown by the 11 tying, 13 pruning and eight team finalists on Saturday was outstanding.

- © Fairfax NZ News