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Do you have what it takes?

Entries now closed

Crowning JCB's operator of the year

JCB set out to put the very best to the ultimate test to find the best tracked excavator operator in the UK.

And we found them.

After weeks of exhilarating heats taking place across the country and over hundreds of entrants taking part, we held the final face-off at the JCB Kevin Quarry where 21 finalists battled it out and we crowned the JCB tracked excavator operator of the year 2024. 

Thank you to everyone who came along to one of the events - from spectators to operators, we had an overwhelming response and it was great to see everyone in attendance. 

JCB operator challenge

THE FINAL LEADERBOARD

 

   
FIRST PLACE Mark Jarman, Breheny Civil Engineering
 SECOND PLACE Sam Cooper, Chasetown Civil Engineering
 THIRD PLACE Tom Balls, JC Balls

Prizes

We’ve got some amazing prizes up for grabs for both the regional heat and the final winners. Here’s what you could win…

Regional Prizes

The top three operators from each regional heat will be invited to the Operator Challenge final in June, where they will be treated to a VIP visit to the JCB World Headquarters, including factory tour, hospitality lunch, an evening meal and one night B&B stay at the exclusive JCB Golf and Country Club. Each regional finalist will also receive a JCB goody bag. 

Plus… every competitor who takes part will receive a JCB cap.

Final Prizes: 1st

An all-expenses paid, three-night stay for two in Las Vegas, including flights, hotel and spending money.

Final Prizes: 2nd

Tickets for two for the Sunday of the British Grand Prix at Silverstone in the BRDC (British Racing Drivers Club).

Final Prizes: 3rd

A two-night London city break for two with spending money.

Plus...

The top three competitors from the final will be treated as a VIP guest of JCB at the opening day of Hillhead on Tuesday 25th June with a helicopter flight to and from the show, a guided tour of the JCB stand, where we will be showcasing our latest product developments in our range of excavators, and lunch.

Prizes are none transferable and there are no cash alternatives.

FAQs

Who can enter?

The challenge is open to any excavator operator aged 16+ with a valid CPCS or NPORS 360 excavator operators’ card. Cards will be checked and verified at the event so please make sure you bring it with you. Anyone under the age of 18 taking part must be supervised by an adult. 

Current JCB staff, dealer staff and their families are excluded from the competition. 

 

Can I enter on the day?

Yes, you are able to turn up to attend and compete at any of the regional heats at any time on the event days, except for the final event.

Who can attend an event?

Spectators at the event are welcome, including the friends and family of the operators taking part. Under 18s must be accompanied and supervised by an adult.

You don't need to register beforehand if you are spectating only. 

What machines will I be operating?

Within the regional heats, you will be operating one of our X Series excavators, ranging from 13 to 24 tonnes, but likely to be the 140X and 245XR. For more information about JCB's X Series tracked excavators, visit https://www.jcb.com/en-gb/campaigns/x-series-guide.

What are the challenges?

In the race to win, you'll take part in two simple timed trials where you will test your precision and dexterity. Operators will have a maximum of three attempts to get the best overall time from the two trials. There will be no practice time available for competitors and the best combined challenge time from any one attempt will be taken.

Take a look at our video above for a sneak preview...

 

Where will the regional events take place?

There are seven regional heats being hosted by our UK Construction dealers across the UK - see above for dates and locations to find your nearest event. As part of these events, dealers are also organising a range of other activities – contact the relevant dealer to find out more about what is taking place. Catering and toilet facilities will be available on site at the events. 

Where will the final take place?

The top three winners from each of the seven regional events will go through to the final, which will be held at JCB Kevin Quarry in Staffordshire on Monday 24th June. This is a fixed date and cannot be changed.

What do I need to bring on the day?

Competitors will need to bring with them their valid CPCS or NPORS 360 excavator operators’ card, as well as the correct PPE, including steel-toe capped boots and a hi-viz vest. 

How can I enter?

It's free to enter - all you need to do is complete the registration form and select the event that you would like to attend. By entering you are confirming you have all of the relevant and up to date operator qualifications and agree to the terms and conditions of the competition.

Terms and Conditions

View Terms and Conditions
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