30 Oct
One weekend, three teams, nine Apprentices, eight volunteer judges, 12 CORE observers, 29 family members and loved ones, and countless hours spent preparing for the 2023 International Lineman’s Rodeo in Overland Park, Kansas. It’s all come to a wrap, and we couldn’t be more proud of our guys!
On Oct. 14, 2023, the International Lineman’s Rodeo had its largest turnout since its inception 39 years ago, with 292 teams and over 400 apprentices competing this year. Not only did CORE give it our all on the rodeo grounds, but we were also able to build comradery, make new connections, and admire the dedication and craftsmanship required of our Journeyman Linemen.
While CORE is new to the rodeo game and we are going up against teams that have been doing this for many years, our competitors gave it their all, and we continue to make significant strides each year. Some key highlights include:
• Two of our Journeyman teams placing in the top 65 out of 292 teams for the Journeyman Pole Climb. Our first team placed in the top 35 of competing teams!
• Five of our CORE Apprentices placing in the top 100 out of 440 apprentices for the Apprentice Pole Climb. Our first two apprentices placed within the top 25!
• One of our CORE Apprentices placing within the top 45 in the Apprentice Hurtman Rescue.
• One CORE Apprentice placing within the top 30 in the Apprentice Mystery Event #1 (Span Guy Preform Replacement).
• Two CORE Apprentices placing within the top 45 competitors for the Apprentice Mystery Event #2 (Blown Arrestor Change Out). Our first Apprentice placed within the top 15, with a time of 4 minutes, 30 seconds to complete the changeout!
• Two of our CORE Apprentices finished the day with a perfect 400 score in the field, no deductions.
• All nine of our CORE Apprentices scored a perfect 100 in the Pole Climb, no deductions.
Thanks to all our competitors, judges, coaches and managers, and all those who had a hand in making this a memorable event! Go CORE!
CORE 2023 Apprentices
Kris Onda, Sam Komoroske, Sean Wood, Matt Thayne, Zach McCann, Kevin Blackstock, Tyler Trehal, Gary Hampton, Jared Reynolds
CORE 2023 Teams
Conifer: Dan Rabern, Josh Simpson, Colten Wilcut
Woodland Park: Tyler Rinck, Dan King, Nate Trotter
Sedalia/Conifer: Dustin Hernandez, Eddie McGee, Guy Taylor
CORE 2023 Judges
Cody Griffin, James Johnson, Jason Shank, Grant Lillehaugen, Sam Morris, Mike Hines, Adam Stewart, Travis Kallweit
