The International Lineman's Rodeo has always been a family event with lineworkers bringing their families to Kansas City for a week of fun and camaraderie.
This year, the line kids not only had the opportunity to take bucket truck rides, cheer on their loved ones on the sidelines and explore the Children's Area on the Rodeo grounds, but they also had the opportunity to compete in the first Kids Rodeo.
The competition, organized by the Missouri Valley JATC and sponsored by Buckingham Manufacturing, gave the children the chance to compete in different age groups in different contests. For example, they could try their hand at the "Teddy Bear Rescue," which was modeled after the Hurtman Rescue, one of the long-time competitions at the International Lineman's Rodeo.
Congratulations to the two winners, who were awarded engraved championship belts, just like the top journeymen teams and apprentices at the Rodeo. The winners are:
- Kessler Hilson (in the 8- to 10-year old age group, 1st Step Apprentices)
- Jake Milhoan (in the 11- to 13-year-old age group, Future Lineman)
Way to go, Kessler and Jake, and thanks for all the kids who competed this year!
