Some farming stories are linked to record harvests, abundant seasons, or hard-to-achieve success. But there is also the story of Rico. This remarkable sheep managed to survive in the harsh Moorendaars Karoo region for seven years, relying entirely on itself.
Separated from the flock, Rico received no human care and was exposed to predators, drought, and the elements. It had to find water and pasture independently, coping with one drought after another, until it was spotted near a fence.
“Any farmer would say that a sheep surviving alone in this area is not an easy task,” notes Dan Crick, General Manager of the National Wool Manufacturers Association (NWGA). He emphasized that Rico lived without human assistance for seven years, completely exposed to predators and the elements, and forced to seek resources until it was discovered.
Rico's inspiring survival story quickly attracted the attention of the South African wool industry. Its story made the news, inspired the creation of a special song and video during the annual congress and centenary celebration of the NWGA, and led to Gerber and Co. weaving a unique wall tapestry from its wool.
However, for the NWGA, Rico represents more than just an exceptional sheep. This year marks the centenary of the South African wool producers' association, and Rico's journey reflects many of the difficulties faced by farmers over the past century.
Crick believes that Rico's story resonates with the NWGA on multiple levels. He explains that the local wool industry is celebrating its anniversary, and like Rico, the path of South Africa's industry has not been easy; it speaks of tough times, the struggle for survival, and radical changes.
Nevertheless, there is another side to this story. According to Crick, it is also a hymn to victory, growth, renewal, and many bright moments. The story of the industry and the producers who supported it at a high level through ups and downs to today's global standard is a testament to the same resilience that allowed Rico to survive and become a legend of its time.
Now, this resilience is being passed on. Brinks wished for Rico's amazing journey to have a lasting impact. They understand that the consequences of drought extend far beyond the farm, as a difficult season can threaten a child's university plans and career aspirations.
“They very well understand how drought can affect children's university plans,” says Crick. As a result, they asked the NWGA to lead the creation of a scholarship fund that will bring real benefit to hardworking students.
This wish has become a reality. The Rico Bursary Fund, launched by the NWGA and the University of the Free State Faculty of Agriculture in Bloemfontein on August 17, will provide deserving agricultural students with the opportunity to build their future.
The University of the Free State has already allocated eight full scholarships for postgraduate programs in sustainable agriculture to this fund, along with two additional undergraduate scholarships. One will be designated for a student from the broader Karoo agricultural community, and the other for a student from another South African wool-producing region. Both students can study any agricultural major offered by the UFS Faculty of Agriculture.
There is something fitting about Rico's story becoming a vehicle for education. A sheep that survived seven years against all odds now helps young people overcome their own obstacles. Crick notes: “Symbolism only has true value if it can be made visible.”
Perhaps the most beautiful part of Rico's story lies in this. The best ending to a good story may be happy, but the best stories are those that continue to benefit long after the last chapter. As the NWGA begins its next century, Rico's story also enters a new phase. The sheep that once had to survive alone now helps others find support. And its woolly legacy may help the new generation of agricultural leaders take root, grow, and thrive. The public will soon be able to contribute to the Rico Bursary Fund. Details on how to support the fund will be published on the NWGA and UFS pages on social media and other platforms. Rico might have survived alone, but his legacy does not have to.