Fagan, who has spent this season working for Alexandra contractor Peter Lyon Shearing in Alexandra, has featured in the minor placings for several years but this was his first open win.
Staying ahead of the other five shearers from the start, Fagan finished first but was cautious about celebrating until the judges had examined the sheep for cuts and damage before giving a final mark.
Another first time winner, George Hawkins, who won the top prize in the open woolhandling, received a spontaneous haka of appreciation from his workmates in the audience.
While spectator numbers appeared to be down a little on last year, there was a good crowd at most of the events over the two days of competition.
Speaking at the end of the final rounds, Peter Lyon, of Peter Lyon Shearing, told the crowd that the Merino Shears, which was now in its 47th year, was a great way to test shearers against their peers to see where they are within the profession.
He urged farmers to attend the Merino Shears to see and appreciate the skill of the shearers.
Results of the Merino Shears - NZ Merino Junior Wool Handling: Katie Hurley 1, Phoebe Nikora 2, Amy Ruki 3, Rangi Wainohu 4, Sonya Pablecheque 5, Kara Messerschmidt 6, Krystal Wilson 7 and Sharnie Keefe 8.
NZ Merino Senior Woolhandling: Candy Hiri 1, Kohai Martin 2, Kelly Luke 3 and Shona Pattison 4.
Senior Shearing: Maaka Rangiwai 1, Wayne Hosie 2, Josh Hull 3, Marc Ludlow 4, Kaleb Tai 5 Lee Henare 6.
NZ Merino Teams Event: Shaun's Team 1, Lyon Nathan 2, Lyon Wannabeez 3, Pullin Shearing 4, EB Busters 5 and Pro Shear 6.
Open Wool Handling: George Hawkins 1, Waimere Peneha 2, Elsie Lyon 3, Taiwha Nelson 4.
Open Shearing Championship: James Fagan 1, Nathan Stratford 2, Mark Buscumb 3, John Emslie 4, Grant Smith 5 and Charlie O'Neill 6.
From left: James Fagan (first), Nathan Stratford (second), Mark Buscumb (third), John Emslie (fourth), Grant Smith (fifth) and Charlie O'Neill (sixth).
