The 2018 Public Power Lineworkers Rodeo is not about angry bulls, lariats and saddles; it is a test of the precise and safe skills power utility lineworkers must have to rescue fellow workers or repair broken lines during treacherous weather conditions.
Come to the free event Saturday, April 28, and watch some true professionals. The opening ceremony is at 7:30 a.m. with competition beginning at 8. You reach the stands by turning onto South Franklin Street from Rogers Road and going to the end of the street past the Holding Village subdivision.
The Town of Wake Forest is partnering with the American Public Power Association, ElectriCities of NC and the North Carolina Association of Municipal Electric Systems to host the rodeo as part of the power association’s convention in Raleigh.
Hundreds of electric lineworkers from public power utilities across the United States will descend on the field with a forest of poles to compete in timed contests to showcase their skills and knowledge in the craft of line work.
Teams of lineworkers will climb poles, build overhead construction, pull up wire and hang transformers – all within a set time limit. Events will be judged on safety, work practices, neatness, ability, equipment handling and speed.
Free and open to the public, the event will also feature the PowerSecure Fun Zone for kids and a variety of food trucks. Food trucks scheduled to be on site include Baguettaboutit, Baton Rouge Cuisine, Cousins Maine Lobster, Daddy Bob’s Barbeque, JAM Soft Serve Ice Cream & Shaved Ice, Jay’s Italian Ice, Kono Pizza, Mama Voula’s, Mr. Mongolian, Spanglish, Will and Pop’s and more!
Open from 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m., the PowerSecure Fun Zone will include a variety of interactive games and activities for children including an inflatable slide, face painting, corn pit, photo booth, pole climbing, rope toss, coloring station and more.
The Public Power Lineworkers Rodeo is the nation’s foremost showcase of public power lineworker skill and knowledge. For more information, visit wakeforestnc.gov and search “Lineworkers Rodeo” or contact Communications & Public Affairs Director Bill Crabtree at 919-435-9421 or bcrabtree@wakeforestnc.gov.
