MEC Lineworkers Shine at Skills Competition
In 22nd annual Gaff-n-Go lineworker’s rodeo
The buzz of competition and camaraderie filled Meadow Event Park in Doswell, Va., as lineworkers from across the country gathered for the 22nd annual Gaff-n-Go Rodeo during an unseasonably warm weekend in mid-May. More than 350 lineworkers representing 12 states — from cooperatives, investor-owned utilities, municipals and contractors — put their skills to the test, demonstrating precision, teamwork and pride in their craft. Apprentices competed individually, while journeymen worked in teams of three. Competitors were judged on accuracy, safety and lastly as a tie breaker, speed.
Mecklenburg Electric Cooperative was well represented, with four journeyman, eight apprentices and six grillers taking part in a barbecue competition of their own.
In the Apprentice Division, Matthew Newcomb earned third-place finishes in both the Hurtman Rescue and Lineworker Down – CPR events. Fellow Chase City district apprentice Devin Letterman placed fourth in the Double Dead-End Insulator Change-Out event.
“All of our guys did an excellent job representing MEC,” said Casey Logan, MEC president and CEO. “They demonstrated strong technical skills and tremendous professionalism while competing against some of the top lineworkers in the nation. Their commitment to their profession and to our members is unwavering, and I am very proud of them all”.
The event also featured the popular Gaff-n-Grill competition, where 26 teams fired up their grills in a spirited culinary showdown. MEC’s Smokin’ & Jokin’ team — Mitch DeJarnette, Kyle Hadley and B.J. Hensley — captured first place in the Anything Butt category. Close behind, MEC’s Fire N the Wire team — B.J. Seamans, Brian Woods and Randy Whirley — earned second place in the same category and narrowly missed a top-three finish in the chicken category by just half a point.
Hosted by the Virginia, Maryland & Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives, the Gaff-n-Go Rodeo provides journeyman lineworkers and apprentices with a valuable opportunity to sharpen their skills, connect with peers and learn from others in the field.
For additional results and photos, visit gaff-n-go.com or find Gaff-n-Go on Facebook.