Boone Power Linemen to Compete at Statewide Rodeo

Boone Power linemen will compete at the Indiana Electric Cooperative Lineman Rodeo Aug. 21-22 at the Hendricks County Fairgrounds in Danville. The two-day, family-friendly event showcases the skills and safety training of electric cooperative lineworkers.

The rodeo includes competitive events for apprentices, journeyman lineworkers, and teams of three. Lineworkers will be tested on skills such as pole climbing, hurt man rescue, and safely changing electric line hardware. The rodeo recognizes excellence in safety, skill, and knowledge.

Boone Power (formerly Boone REMC) will send eight linemen to the state competition. A total of 35 teams and 131 individuals from 26 Indiana electric cooperatives will compete in this year’s event.

The following linemen are representing Boone Power at the rodeo:

• Dustin Baker (Lebanon)
• Nathan Funk (Lebanon)
• Marcus Pingleton (Brownsburg)
• Nick Shepherd (Thorntown)
• Michael Shirely (Jamestown)
• Ryan Taylor (Jamestown)
• Seth Thompson (Zionsville)
• Cole VanEnkevort (Frankfort)

“This event allows our linemen to refine and demonstrate the skills needed to safely perform their jobs,” said Jeff Dickerson, Director of Operations. “Our linemen have a lot of pride in the work they do. We’re looking forward to another great showcase of skill from Boone Power linemen this year.”

The rodeo kicks off on Thursday, Aug. 21, starting with opening ceremonies at 8 a.m., followed by team events from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event continues Friday with individual competitions running from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

There also will be a kids' zone, sponsored by Hendricks Power Cooperative, featuring activities, air brush tattoos, and an ice cream truck.

Attendance to the event is free and open to the public. Entrance to the event will be located at the Hendricks County Fairgrounds Gate 5 off N. County Road 200 E. See a schedule for Boone Power's competitions below.