JCB is proud to be announced as headline sponsor for the Awesome Earthmovers Operator Challenge, taking place at PlantWorx 2025.
Awesome Earthmovers is bringing the Operator Challenge back to PlantWorx for 2025; this time at its new home, Newark Showground in Nottinghamshire from 23 to 25 September 2025. The event promises to be bigger and better than ever before, with JCB joining as headline sponsor as the company celebrates its 80th anniversary.
All machines used in the challenge will be supplied by JCB, including an extensive line-up of excavators from 1 to 14 tonnes. The popular 145XR X-Series zero tailswing, updated 3CX, and the versatile Hydradig will all be in action. Alongside the competition kit, our latest hydrogen-powered internal combustion engine will also be on display, giving visitors the chance to see what’s next in alternative power.
Following the success of the 2023 edition at Peterborough Showground, which saw hundreds of operators and industry insiders taking part, the 2025 competition promises to be just as competitive, entertaining and memorable.
Gareth Lumsdaine | JCB UK and ROI Sales Director
"We’re looking forward to an exciting three days with great machines and great people putting in some genuinely impressive performances.”
This year’s challenge will feature eight timed events, each inspired by classic board games. Designed to test accuracy, control and flair, these challenges offer operators the chance to show off their skills in a fast-paced and fun setting. Two extra head-to-head activities will be open to all accredited attendees, giving everyone a chance to get involved.
Dale Hawkins, Awesome Earthmovers, said: "It’s been incredible to see how the Operator Challenge has grown over the years, but 2025 feels like a real landmark. Having JCB come on board as headline sponsor, as they celebrate 80 years at the heart of British manufacturing, takes the whole thing to another level. It’s a huge show of support - not just for the event, but for the operators themselves. These are the people out there every day, making the machines work, delivering precision, power, and pride in what they do. It’s friendly, but fierce. Exactly what this event is all about. Operators showing what they’re capable of, backed by the best machines in the game. It’s the perfect setting to put operator skill in the spotlight and we can’t wait to see how it plays out."
Daily prizes will be awarded in each challenge, with the overall winner decided by the lowest combined time across all eight games. The format rewards consistency as much as speed and raises the bar for operator excellence.
Two hands-on demo zones will also run alongside the competition, giving visitors the chance to try out a range of small to mid-sized kit in a relaxed, non-competitive environment. On-site catering will be available throughout the challenge area to keep everyone fuelled.
The Operator Challenge is fast becoming a must-attend feature of the construction calendar, showcasing the talent, focus and finesse that operators bring to the job every day.
To find out more or to register your interest, visit Awesome Earthmovers https://awesomeearthmovers.com/registration/ or head to the PlantWorx 2025 website.