Central Virginia Electric Cooperative is celebrating three local lineworkers for their accomplishments in the 20th Annual Gaff-n-Go Lineworker Rodeo held on May 17-18 at Meadow Event Park in Doswell, VA. Seven apprentice linemen and one journeyman lineman from CVEC participated this year. Brandon White, Journeyman Lineman and Drone Pilot (Amherst) placed first in the Drone Competition. In the Apprentice Lineman competition, Ethan Yancey, Hurtman Rescue (Scottsville) placed first and Graham Hughes, Hurtman Rescue (Scottsville) received third place.
“We are incredibly proud of all the participants who showcased their skills at this year’s rodeo,” said Gary Wood, CEO and President at CVEC. “Their dedication to safety, precision, and teamwork is a testament to the high standards we uphold in our industry. Congratulations to all the winners for their outstanding performance.”
The event not only highlights the technical proficiency required in the lineworker profession, but also fosters camaraderie and the sharing of best practices among peers. CVEC extends its gratitude to all sponsors, volunteers, and attendees who made this event a resounding success. This year’s competition brought together more than 300 linemen from 11 states registered to compete and showcase their exceptional skills, safety practices, and teamwork in a series of challenging events. The events began Friday morning following the opening ceremony and national anthem performance by Nashville recording artist Will Reid, a lineman for BARC Electric Cooperative in Millboro, VA.
Competitors from more than 30 teams participated in equipment operator events Friday afternoon. This year, a drone competition was introduced, reflecting the growing use of aerial inspections. Electric co-ops in Virginia, Maryland and Delaware have more than 100 licensed drone pilots on staff and are provided training via VMDAEC for industry professionals to obtain their UAS Part 107 license from the Federal Aviation Administration. Spectators gathered to watch as competitors navigated drones through a course designed to simulate aerial inspections of utility poles. Saturday featured the main events during which linemen climbed utility poles and performed a variety of tasks to simulate real-life scenarios. Apprentices compete individually, while journeymen work in teams of three. The Lineworker Rodeo, a hallmark event in the utility industry, tests participants’ abilities in various categories including pole climbing, equipment repair, and high-voltage line maintenance, all performed under strict safety standards. This year’s event saw an impressive turnout, with teams and individuals demonstrating remarkable expertise and dedication to their craft.
For more information about the Lineworker Rodeo and a full list of results, please visit https://vmdaec.swoogo.com/gaffngo.
Gaff-n-Go Rodeo Apprentice Hurtman Rescue event. He is pictured with representatives from the Virginia, Maryland, Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives