JCB Operator Challenge 2026: Heat 1

The 2026 JCB UK Operator Challenge got off to a fantastic start on Wednesday 18th March at the first regional heat, hosted by Greenshields JCB.

The event was held at the striking Wrotham Quarry in Kent; a dramatic setting within a former chalk quarry, surrounded by towering rock faces and an expansive open space.

The site provided a special backdrop that perfectly complimented the iconic yellow machines, which included the JCB 145XR; the tracked excavator that stands out in the X Series range for delivering full size performance with a reduced tailswing, and 3CX Backhoe Loader; a highly versatile all-in-one loader and excavator.

JCB’s Operator Challenge aims to find the country’s best excavator operator and features two timed games that test precision and dexterity. The competition was intense, with some remarkably fast times being recorded, and the top three competitors going on to take part in the final in July to win some amazing prizes, as well as the title of being crowned JCB's Excavator Operator of the Year 2026.

Top of the leaderboard at the end of the two days was Ricky Woods with a time of 01:53, alongside Kieran Woods (01:53), both from SE Groundworks, closely followed by Ollie Gunns (02:19) from Gunns Contractors Ltd.

Well done to all the operators who took part and thank you to everyone who came to support!

Regional events are being held across the country throughout April, May and June. More details on how to register to take part, prizes, and the competition terms and conditions, can be found HERE. 

Heat 1: Top 10 Leaderboard