MDOT State Equipment Operators Roadeo winners announced
JACKSON, MISS. – The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) held its annual State Equipment Operators Roadeo at the Gulfport Sportsplex on Thursday, July 16.
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 Southeastern Regional Equipment Operators Training Conference & Roadeo, October 6-8, in Hampton VA.
State Roadeo events and state champions in each event are as follows:
- Lowboy: First Place – Nathan Perkins; Second Place – Allen Stewart; Third Place – Steve Waldon.
- Single-Axle Dump Truck: First Place – Justin Applewhite; Second Place – Ryan Nowell; Third Place – Billy Coward.
- Tandem-Axle Dump Truck: First Place – Michael Pannell; Second Place – Mickey Smith; Third Place – Jeffery May.
- Backhoe: First Place – Thomas Goode; Second Place – Matthew Prestage; Third Place – Homer Smith.
- Motor Grader: First Place – Kyle Woods; Second Place – Matthew Spears; Third Place – Tommy Rodgers.
- Tractor Mower: First Place – Tommy Perkins; Second Place – Lance Carter; Third Place – Steven M. Lofton.
- Skid Steer: First Place – Rodrick Cooley; Second Place – Fletcher Moorman; Third Place – Kasey Wilson.
- Overall State Roadeo Champions: – District 5, Newton.
