Last week, the Alachua County Public Works Department partnered with the City of Gainesville Public Works Department to host a competitive event for heavy equipment operators at the Alachua County Agriculture and Equestrian Center in Newberry.
The Regional Heavy Equipment ROADeo, organized by the Santa Fe Branch of the American Public Works Association (APWA) and sponsored by Beard Equipment Company, attracted over 60 skilled operators from nine counties and municipalities. Participants competed in a series of timed events, showcasing their expertise with large, complex machinery for the chance to win prizes and earn bragging rights.
The competition was designed to challenge participants' proficiency and precision in handling heavy equipment.
One event tasked operators with navigating a wheeled loader through an obstacle course while balancing a bowling ball on a 55-gallon drum. Dropping the ball resulted in disqualification, while hitting a cone led to penalties. Another event featured grapple truck operators, who were challenged to move large checker pieces between boards within a specified time frame. Grapple trucks are essential tools used daily to clear debris and trees from roadways, especially after storms.
“These events highlight the critical role professional equipment operators play in keeping our community running smoothly,” said Alachua County Road Superintendent Don Clifton. “Operating such heavy machinery requires remarkable hand-eye coordination, and these professionals ensure our infrastructure for roads, waste management, and water systems functions efficiently and safely.”
The next Regional ROADeo is set for March 25, 2026, and will be held again at the Alachua County Agriculture and Equestrian Center.
For more information, please contact Alachua County Road Superintendent Don Clifton at 352-548-1272.
