A Brecon woman will this week compete at the 2026 World Shearing & Wool Handling Championships in New Zealand - the pinnacle event for sheep shearing and wool handling.

Sarah Rees is one of six representing Wales in the global competition, which runs from March 4-7 in Masterton and features teams from 28 countries. For Sarah, who will compete as a woolhandler, it is a return to the world stage: she was part of the Welsh team that won the Woolhandling Team title at the 2023 World Championships.

The Welsh team is managed by Rhys Jones from Denbighshire and includes a mix of seasoned competitors and newcomers.

Leading the machine shearers is Gwion Lloyd Evans from Bylchau, Denbighshire, the reigning World Machine Shearing Champion and a British Wool Ambassador. Joining him is Llyr Jones from Conwy, who won the Champion Shearer of Wales in 2025 and will be competing at the World Championships for the first time.

In blade shearing, Elfed Jackson from Gwynedd brings a wealth of experience, attending his 12th World Championships and multiple world finals. Rhydian Evans from Ceredigion, who claimed the Champion Blade Shearer of Wales title in 2025, joins him for his debut on the world stage.

Completing the team is Jessica Morgan from Carmarthenshire, a seasoned woolhandler with more than 20 years of experience, who earned her place by winning the 2025 Welsh Open Woolhandling Circuit.

Gareth Jones, Head of Member Engagement at British Wool, said: “Best of luck to the Welsh team at the World Championships. Dedication, talent, and teamwork are key to any successful team, and we wish all members the very best of luck representing their country.”

The championships coincide with the Golden Shears in New Zealand. Fans can follow the action via live streaming on the British Wool Farm Facebook page.