On an overcast morning in early May, dozens of linemen from electric cooperative across South Texas joined together in a friendly competition: a Lineman Rodeo.

Linemen rodeos offer these men the chance to showcase their skills in a safe, fun and competitive environment. It’s also an opportunity to show their work to friends and family, who might not otherwise see what keeps their linemen away from home at all hours of the day and night.

San Patricio Electric Cooperative sent four linemen to compete in the 4th Annual Coastal Bend Lineman Rodeo, hosted by our neighbors at Nueces Electric Cooperative, on May 3. 

SPEC Journeymen linemen, Wade Bounds, Jesse Rivera and Martin Villarreal, and Apprentice Lineman, Blake Galvan, put their skills to the test by competing in categories such as Speed Climbing, Hurtman Rescue, OCR Replacement and Cutout Replacement.

And two of our linemen brought home trophies. Villareal took first place in Journeyman Hurtman Rescue and second place in Journeyman Overall. Bounds took 1st place in the Journeyman OCR Replacement and third place in Journeyman Overall.

Although competitive in spirit, Linemen Rodeos clearly showcase two of the seven Cooperative Principles: Cooperation Among Cooperatives and Education, Training and Information. This simply means that cooperatives work together for the benefit of all.  Through the Linemen Rodeo, these men share their knowledge and learn from other cooperative linemen who participate.

SPEC’s linemen were joined by apprentice and journeyman linemen from eight nearby electric cooperatives.