Below is a press release from the Mississippi Department of Transportation:
The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) held its annual State Equipment Operators Roadeo at the Landers Center in Southaven on Thursday, June 9.
Focusing on efficiency and skill, MDOT’s Roadeos provide employees with an opportunity to display their mastery of vehicle handling, trailer maneuvering and heavy equipment precision. The event and judging criteria provide feedback and let operators evaluate their strengths and challenges. Operators improve techniques and learn new skills while engaging in some friendly competition.
Contestants in the state competition won earlier Roadeos held in each of the six MDOT districts.
Winners from the state roadeo will move on to the regional competition.
"Skills matter. Safety and efficiency depend on the skill sets displayed in the "Roadeo", said Commissioner John Caldwell, Northern Transportation District. “Congratulations to all the participants, especially the District 2 winners from North Mississippi. Thanks to the Landers Center in Desoto County and the local hotels and restaurants that welcomed all the MDOT competitors and their families from across the state."
State Roadeo events and state champions in each event are as follows:
- Overall State Roadeo Champions – District 2
- Lowboy: First Place – Joshua Hankins; Second Place – Michael Jones; Third Place – Trevor Graham.
- Single-Axle Dump Truck: First Place – Coly Smith; Second Place – Derrick Stamps; Third Place – James “Scott” Anderson.
- Tandem-Axle Dump Truck: First Place – Terry “Buck” Buckley; Second Place – Jeff May; Third Place – Bradley “Trace” Anderson.
- Backhoe: Frist Place – Thomas Goode; Second Place – Jason Moak; Third Place – Michael “Mike” Jones.
- Motor Grader: First Place – Thomas Malone; Second Place – Kyle Woods; Third Place – Simpson Wofford.
- Bushhog: First Place – Steve Lofton; Second Place – Bobby J. Bell Jr.; Third Place – Nathan Perkins.
Winners are left to right in each photo. Also pictured in each photo is Brian Ratliff, Chief Deputy/Chief of Staff.
For more information about the Equipment Operators Roadeo, visit GoMDOT.com.
