WEST VALLEY CITY, Utah -- Rocky Mountain Power and International Brotherhood of Electrical Worker employees hosted a rodeo that's not your typical roundup.
On June 11, the 23rd Annual Utah Lineman's Rodeo took place. However, rather than bulls and horses, competitors dealt with electricity.
Journeymen and apprentice electrical workers competed to find out who the best lineman was by taking part in specific job tasks with a twist . These activities included quickly and safely climbing a 45-foot electric pole and ringing a bell at the top without breaking an egg in their mouth, rescuing a mannequin from the top of a pole and other competitions.
"The Lineman's Rodeo is a great way to learn from each other and keep safe," said Justin Halloran, Rocky Mountain Power lineman and chairman of the Lineman's Rodeo committee in a press release sent to FOX 13. "It's also a great opportunity for people considering a career in the electric industry."
Teams from Pacific Gas and Electric, Portland General Electric, St. George City Electric, other utilities and contracting companies competed in the event.
IBEW told FOX 13 that linemen risk their lives everyday working with high voltage and it's a way to have fun while learning good safety practices. All proceeds from the event went to the University of Utah Burn Center.
