Grant PUD linemen take second in rodeo
Grant PUD linemen Rodney Fronsman, Dan Beierman and Scott Elliott competed in Saturday's Andrew York Lineman Rodeo in Wenatchee. They placed second out of 13 teams.
WENATCHEE - Three Grant County PUD linemen placed second overall during the weekend's Andrew York Linemen Rodeo at Walla Walla Point Park in Wenatchee.
Among Washington state competitors, Grant PUD's team of linemen, Rodney Fronsman, Scott Elliott and Dan Beierman, was ranked the top local finisher.
There was a total of 13 teams competing in events including the pole-top rescue, a high voltage equipment replacement and the speed climb.
Grant PUD's team score was 700 points, with a time of 17:08 for four events.
The first place team, from Portland General Electric, received a score of 700 points and a time of 14:19.
On Monday, Beierman, said Grant PUD was the highest placing utility, "so that was pretty good."
They placed in every event.
"I know we could do as well as those who practiced," he commented. "I knew we could be competitive. We have competent journeymen."
Grant PUD's team only had an opportunity to practice twice, he said.
"I know Portland's teams are given a lot of time to practice," he said.
Portland General Electric had two teams at the event.
The event is held annually in honor of Chelan County PUD lineman Andrew York. He was hit and killed by a drunk driver in 2000 while working.
York was in his thirties and left behind a wife and young daughter.
Entry fees and sponsorships are used for the Andrew York Memorial Scholarship. Overall, the event provided $17,500 for graduating Washington state seniors taking part in drug and alcohol prevention actives.
"This year's event, our seventh annual, was a success because of all the PUD and the community volunteers that come together to put it on," commented Daryn Klinginsmith, of Wenatchee, a former lineman and a founding member of the rodeo. "Many of the competitors said they choose to compete here year after year because of the family atmosphere and because it supports scholarships."
Many supporters for Grant PUD showed up in Wenatchee to watch the linemen.
Grant PUD commissioner Dale Walker, PUD general Foreman Scott Rogers and family members supported their team.
Tim Culbertson, the district's general manager, spoke at the event.
Next year's rodeo is on June 16.
For more information, visit www.ayrodeo.com.