MAY 2022
This month, we are excited to welcome back our Gaff-n-Go rodeo, where lineworkers compete in events that test their skills, endurance and teamwork, with a focus on safety. It is a great opportunity to see them in action without the wind, ice, rain, cold and heat usually involved when they are working. This also gives their families a chance to see what they do. Watching the face of a lineworker’s young son or daughter as their parent climbs a pole, changes a crossarm or replaces a transformer is a sight that you’ll remember long after the event is over.
One of our members, Central Virginia Electric Cooperative, started the rodeo in 2003 to give local cooperatives an event focused on work safety and efficiency. From those humble beginnings in Lynchburg, it has grown into one of the largest rodeos on the East Coast, with more than 150 lineworkers from seven states participating in our 2019 event. The Virginia, Maryland & Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives assumed coordination of the rodeo in 2007 with the help of a working group of representatives from our participants.
This year’s event will be held May 13-14 at Meadow Event Park in Doswell, Va. Admission is free. Along with apprentice and journeyman team events, a variety of vendors will showcase the latest advancements in utility tools, equipment and vehicles. Our Youth Art Contest will be on display, with interactive games and crafts for children.
Come join us to see these lineworkers participate together and compete against each other in an atmosphere of skill and safety.
Brian S. Mosier, President & CEO
Virginia, Maryland & Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives