Foley, Ala. — (OBA) —  Public works crews from across the Gulf Coast are heading to Foley to compete in a heavy equipment skills competition. The city is hosting the Gulf Coast Heavy Equipment Roadeo at OWA Parks and Resort. The event is free and open to the public. OWA is also a sponsor of the Roadeo.

The competition is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 25, with activities running from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. As of the city's announcement, more than 20 cities and other agencies had already registered to participate. 

Competitors will face challenges designed to test the skills they use on the job every day. Events will include competitions featuring mini-excavators, bulldozers, excavators, and skid steers. Skid steers are small tracked vehicles with blades similar to those of a forklift. The contest will highlight accuracy, control, and technical ability.

Foley Mayor Ralph Hellmich said the event gives public workers a moment in the spotlight they rarely get. "It's something that gives all the public employees a real sense of pride," Hellmich said. "They don't always get a lot of public recognition in their jobs, and this is a chance to get together and show what they can do."

In addition to the crew competitions, mayors from several municipalities are scheduled to face off in a special challenge during the event. That added competition is expected to add an extra layer of excitement to the day's lineup. The mayors' contest puts local leaders behind the controls of the same heavy machinery their public works crews use daily.

The Roadeo will also feature live music from the band "Chitlin Switch" throughout the day. Food will be available for purchase at the event. Proceeds from lunch sales will benefit Youth Reach Gulf Coast, a local nonprofit organization.