Hatari makes history at 2025 Royal Carcass Competition
For the first time in the competition’s history, the Royal Show Champion Lamb Carcass award resulted in a tie, with two exceptional Dormers from Marius Eksteen’s Hatari Farming each scoring an impressive 84.04%.
Marius Eksteen’s Dormers from Hatari Farming achieved a remarkable sweep of the single Champion Lamb classes at the 2025 Royal Carcass Competition, held on Tuesday and judged by Chris Ngeleza and Selvan Odayan of SAMIC. Their performance marked a historic milestone.
For the first time in the competition’s history, the Royal Show Champion Lamb Carcass award resulted in a tie, with two exceptional Dormers from Hatari each scoring an impressive 84.04%.
Hatari also secured the 2025 Reserve Champion Lamb Carcass and excelled in the group classes, winning the 2025 Champion Lamb Group.
Hatari Farming also bred the 2025 Royal Carcass Competition Reserve Champion Lamb Carcass, a Dormer.
Hatari Farming’s Dormers excelled in the group classes, winning the 2025 Royal Carcass Competition Champion Group of Lamb Carcasses.
The carcass judging was conducted at Halaal Fresh Meats Abattoir in Thornville, with the winning lamb carcasses acquired by Clover Meats, a speciality Durban butchery, for their discerning clientele.
Wayne Muller, General Manager of the Royal Agricultural Society, praised the quality of Hatari’s entries, stating, “The Dormers presented by Hatari at this year’s competition were outstanding on the hook. We are delighted that Marius chose to exhibit them at the Royal.”
The Society extends its gratitude to Chris Ngeleza and Selvan Odayan of SAMIC for their expertise and dedication, as well as to RPO KZN and SAFJA for their invaluable support in ensuring the overall success of the 2025 Royal Fat Stock Show and Carcass Competition.
“This year’s event was a resounding success, showcasing agricultural heritage, community spirit, and a commitment to excellence,” Muller reflected. “We look forward to welcoming everyone back for our historic 175th anniversary show in 2026.”
The 2026 Royal Agricultural Show, marking this significant milestone, will take place from 29 May to 3 June at the Royal’s new venue, Tweedie Hall, just outside Howick in the KZN Midlands.
The complete results of the 2025 Royal Carcass Competition are available here.
