2019 Kentucky Lineman’s Rodeo winners
ELIZABETHTOWN, KY – Nolin RECC, in Elizabethtown, hosted the 15th Kentucky Lineman’s Rodeo at the Hardin County Fairgrounds September 26 and 27.
“It was an honor to get to play the role of host for this year’s Lineman’s Rodeo. Nolin RECC takes great pride in lineworker safety. This rodeo is a testament to the statewide effort to preserve safety and build comradery amongst lineworkers, who are one of the key driving factors for our industry” says Greg Lee, President and CEO at Nolin RECC.
The Kentucky Lineman’s Rodeo is a yearly competition organized by the Kentucky Electric Cooperatives and showcases the amazing talents of electric cooperative lineman. This year’s rodeo saw 15 of Kentucky’s 26 electric cooperatives’ linemen compete for the coveted titles of top Apprentice, Journeyman, and Lineman team. The competition includes several work-related events: hurt-man rescue, skills climb, and a mystery event. All events are judged on safety procedures as the focus of the rodeo is working safely.
Besides the 100+ competing lineman, the rodeo also had 50 judges and 25 volunteers. Family members and co-workers also come out in large numbers to support their various cooperative team members. Sponsors are an important part of the rodeo success with 38 sponsors at varying levels.
The rodeo, which began in 2005, started as part of a state effort to make lineworker safety a top priority for electric co-op utility employees in Kentucky. While this event is a competition, the rodeo tests line workers’ skills and safety practices – scoring rewards safety over speed.
