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Champion drivers emerge from state Roadeo competition

It may not be so unusual to see District 6’s Dale Fremont wearing a hard hat, or baseball cap for that matter. But since being named reigning champion of the ITD Roadeo circuit, you may find him sporting a crown.

Fremont outscored 23 other drivers from across the state to win the annual State Equipment Roadeo, held last week in Island Park. As the first-place finisher in the District 6 Roadeo (June 17), Fremont automatically qualified for the state event.

The roadeo tests drivers’ skills as they maneuver snowplows and heavy loaders through an obstacle course. In addition, they are given a limited time to detect at least five mechanical problems in a designated truck.

“The courses are a little more difficult (at the state competition) than what they had at the districts,” said Rex Hufford, Highway Equipment Analyst and ITD Roadeo coordinator. “The competition is definitely more intense. Everyone competed gallantly and a good time was enjoyed by all.”

Fremont is a 10-year employee of ITD. He now qualifies to compete in the roadeo at the National Snow and Ice Conference in September. The national event is extremely competitive, consisting of written exams, multiple equipment inspections, challenging obstacle courses and a multitude of skilled operators, Hufford explains. “To win is a difficult accomplishment.”

The top ten finishers at the state competition were: