KINGSTON, Jamaica — A Jamaica Public Service (JPS) team of 12 professional linemen copped first, second and third place awards in two events, in the 30th International Lineman Rodeo held in Kansas, USA on Saturday, October 19.  

The annual event sees over 200 teams from electric utilities around the world, competing for dominance in team and individual events, such as the Pole Climb and Hurtman Rescue, among others. 

JPS lineman, Orville Black, nicknamed ‘Mr Ice’ bagged the first place in the Apprentice Mystery Event.  The event required the lineman to carry out tasks on insulators on overhead electrical wires — speedily and safely.  Not only did Black receive a perfect score, but he also accomplished his tasks in less than five minutes.  

And with Jamaicans known for speed, JPS lineman Denton Williams, along with Black, snatched the second and third place awards respectively, for the Pole Climb race.

The Lineman’s Rodeo attracts the best linemen from around the world to compete in events based on traditional lineman tasks and skills.

The contingent of JPS linemen returns to Jamaica 8:30 pm Monday, October 21, at the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston.