Defending Lineman’s Rodeo champions to showcase skills ahead of international competition

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

MARION, Ill., (KBSI) — The reigning champions of the International Lineman’s Rodeo are gearing up to defend their title — and the public is invited to see them in action this week.

Ameren Illinois linemen Jason Novak, Austin Lewis, and Clayton Gulley, winners of last year’s competition, will meet with media and demonstrate their safety and climbing skills at 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, at the Marion Operating Center, 1800 West Main St.

The trio will discuss how they’ve been preparing for this year’s event in Bonner Springs, Kansas, where more than 200 teams from around the world will compete in what’s often called the “Lineman Olympics.”

The International Lineman’s Rodeo showcases the skills and athleticism of electrical line workers, with events based on everyday tasks performed in the field — including pole climbs, hurtman rescues, and general linework challenges.