The 8th Annual Lineworker's Rodeo Recap

The 8th Annual Lineworker's Rodeo was held on September 11, 2014 at the NEPPA training facility in Littleton, Mass. The weather was perfect for the event. There were 10 teams competing in six different events that tested safe work procedures and timely workmanship.  We also had a great showing of support from our generous sponsors, and we even had a sizeable crowd of spectators.

The opening ceremony began at 9:15 a.m. with a short prayer in remembrance of the 9/11 tragedies and the singing of the National Anthem by Chris Guyette. The competition immediately followed at 9:15. The teams each competed in Hurtman Rescue, Speed Climb, URD Transformer, Two Phase Dead End Changeout, and the mystery event: Double Crossarm Changeout. Two lucky teams, Peabody and Groveland, had the good fortune to also perform the Cutout and LA Changeout. Those two teams had so much fun completing that event that it was pulled from the competition. (Truth be told, the event was too lengthy and involved for all teams to complete by the end of the day, so the event coordinators eliminated it from the overall scoring compilation). 

At 11:30 a.m. lunch was provided by Altec Industries, Inc. Everyone in attendance was treated to cheeseburgers, hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, cookies and a drink. Once lunch was complete, the teams went back to climbing poles. By 3 p.m. all of the teams had finished the events. At this point the venue shifted to the Boxboro Holiday Inn. The competitors had an opportunity to change out of their work clothes and prepare for the reception and awards ceremony.  

The overall top three finishers from the 8th Annual Lineworker's Rodeo are:

1st Place:  Princeton, Mass.

2nd Place:  Georgetown, Mass.

3rd Place:  Norwich, Conn.

The top three finishers of each event can be found here .

Also, a new tradition began this year, as the Princeton team got to take home the Rodeo banner that was signed by everyone in attendance. Congratulations to the winners and all of the participants at the Rodeo!  

In summation, the Rodeo was a great success. Everyone involved had a great time, and many special memories were made. This event is unique in that it allows the linecrews to network with each other at an event designed to safely showcase their skills. Oftentimes when crews from various utilities get together, it is for the purpose of rendering mutual aid. There is very limited opportunity to socialize, as power restoration is a serious and dangerous undertaking. At the Rodeo, crews can talk and share work procedures without the stress of foul weather and demanding working conditions.  

So, thank you one and all who participated either by competing, sponsoring, volunteering or observing; the Rodeo would not be possible without the support we receive on many different levels. 

If you are interested in buying a shirt, the information can be found at www.neppa.org on the home page. Please email Courtney Crouse at ccrouse@neppa.org if you do want one!