In 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 three linemen to compete in the 5th Annual Coastal Bend Lineman Rodeo, hosted by our neighbors at Nueces Electric Cooperative, on May 9.
SPEC Journeymen linemen, Wade Bounds, and Apprentice Lineman, Blake Galvan and Riley Chandler, put their skills to the test by competing in categories such as Speed Climbing, Hurt Man Rescue, Cross Arm Replacement and Transformer Replacement.
This year’s event was a powerful reminder of just how vital linemen are in our communities. The night before the rodeo, a massive storm tore through Nueces Electric Cooperative’s service area, leaving more than 100 poles damaged and thousands of people without power.
Amid their day’s long restoration efforts, Nueces EC’s linemen were unable to compete in the rodeo this year. And somehow despite their challenges, Nueces EC graciously continued to host the event.
Our linemen competed with determination, demonstrating the specialized skills they use every day to maintain our electric system. Competition was tough this year. And although our linemen didn’t come home with any trophies, they’re winners in our book. We’re proud of their accomplishments, day in and day out. They serve our communities with tireless dedication.
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.
And in true cooperative spirit, linemen from other electric cooperatives stepped in to help Nueces EC restore power, providing the equipment and specialized skills needed to bring power back to their communities.
