CBEC Win Honors at Competition

Monday, 25 April 2011 00:02

Two apprentice electric-line workers from Craig-Botetourt Electric Cooperative took honors in scored events during the ninth-annual Gaff-n-Go Lineman’s Rodeo April 9 at the Meadow Event Park in Doswell.

Apprentice lineman Dustin Smith won first place in the Extendo-Stick Operation event in the rodeo.

Apprentice lineman Avery Dolinger took third place in both the Highest Written Score and the Overall Apprentice Winner categories of the rodeo competition.

A total of 98 utility workers from four states competed in the rodeo.

The Gaff-n-Go Lineman’s Rodeo is the only event of its type held in Virginia and offers professional linemen the opportunity to demonstrate their technical skills as they perform a variety of designated electric line-work tasks. Their performances are scored, with safe-work practices the most important factor in judging.

“The Gaff-n-Go Lineman’s Rodeo promotes safe work skills and practices,” notes Shawn Hildebrand, general manager of Craig-Botetourt Electric Cooperative. “We are especially pleased -- and proud -- that our line workers participated in the rodeo events and were recognized for their efforts. The job that line workers do on behalf of our membership every day is a dangerous one, so safety has to be the foundation of every task.”