Teams from electric cooperatives around Kentucky will be in the area Sept 26-27

Electric cooperatives power more 1.5 million people across Kentucky. Everyday, lineworkers labor in all conditions to keep the power on for their members. Once a year, some of these lineworkers come together in a unique competition.

The Kentucky Lineman’s Rodeo attracts the best lineworkers from around the commonwealth to compete in events based on traditional lineman tasks and skills. This year, Nolin RECC along with Kentucky Electric Cooperatives is hosting this friendly competition at the Hardin County Fairgrounds September 26-27.

The action begins Thursday, September 26 at 9am with individual Journeyman, Apprentice and Senior events. They will compete in Hurtman Rescue, Skills Climb, Angle Clip and a mystery event. On Friday, September 27, there will be a Lineman Memorial at 7:30am with team competition starting at 8:30am. Team events include Hurtman Rescue, Cutout Replace, Suspension Insulator and a mystery event.

“Safety is a priority for all of our lineworkers in everything they do. The Rodeo is about friendly competition, but the focus really is on safety and the skill it takes to do the difficult work that they do in their jobs everyday,” says Nolin RECC Manager of Communications Sarah Fellows.

The first Kentucky Lineman’s Rodeo was held in August 2005, with nearly 70 linemen competing. The Rodeo has grown to over 200 teams and 250 apprentices. The event is free and open to the public.