Colorado Springs Utilities to host nationwide utility rodeo

The sight of power poles at Rock Ledge Ranch near the main entrance to Garden of the Gods worried some people that the area’s natural beauty would be disturbed but there’s a good reason for it.
The poles are only temporary.

On March 30, Colorado Springs Utilities will host the annual Public Power Lineworkers Rodeo at the ranch.

The event will bring 80 three-member teams from across the country — as well as 100 apprentices — for a daylong competition that will draw a crowd of around 2,000, Colorado Springs Utilities said Monday.

“We decided on that location because it’s open and has plenty of parking,” said Bryan Babcock, a CSU manager.

The competition will reveal which crew can complete each of eight tasks the fastest and the best. Tasks include rescuing an injured lineman, climbing power poles and installing transformers.

The event will offer food and a variety of family activities.

CSU last hosted the event in 2002 and, in the history of event, has had a crew finish as high as third.

The event starts at 7:30 a.m. and ends at 4 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public.