Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Public works crews from three South Baldwin cities turned friendly rivalry into community pride at a first-of-its-kind Equipment Rodeo. The contest highlighted skill, safety, and teamwork. Operators maneuvered heavy machines with surprising finesse. Spectators learned how vital these jobs are.

The inaugural Baldwin County Municipal Equipment Rodeo was held this past Friday at Graham Creek Nature Preserve in Foley. City teams from Foley, Gulf Shores, and Orange Beach entered their best operators.

Orange Beach took first place overall. Foley finished second and Gulf Shores placed third. Organizers said the event is planned as an annual competition. Interest has already grown beyond the three initial cities.

Participants tackled challenges designed to showcase precision. In one task, the boom of a mini-excavator became a giant golf club. Operators aimed and tapped an oversized ball into a marked target.

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Another course tested skid-steer control. Crews used the compact tracked machines to lift and carry a bowling ball. They also balanced a basketball that was mounted on a pallet while moving.

Bulldozer operators faced an accuracy run. The goal was to push a large tire through an obstacle path. Knocking over any orange traffic cones meant lost time and penalties.

Mike Chavers, Foley’s street maintenance superintendent, said the rodeo builds relationships that matter. He noted interest from Fairhope and Daphne. He hopes the field expands next year and the event keeps growing.

“This is a chance to meet between the public works directors and the superintendents,” Chavers said. He added that cities across Baldwin County want to improve together and share effective practices.

Foley Public Works Director Darrell Russell said cooperation is common during emergencies. Events like the rodeo, he added, let crews compare equipment and approaches. “It’s a chance to network and look at different equipment,” he said.

Gulf Shores streets supervisor Lee Galbreath praised the chance to break stereotypes. He said the public often underestimates the technical skill involved. “We are proud to participate and showcase our talent,” Galbreath said. He added that events like these help correct misconceptions. “Public works is not guys standing around a hole,” he said. “Our folks get to show what they do every day.”

Local vendors helped make the day possible. Sponsors included Thompson Tractor and Caterpillar, Beard Equipment, Perry Brothers Equipment, and Parrish Tractor. Their displays gave crews and visitors hands-on views of tools and gear.

Food also brought people together. Bill Patterson of Fat Boys Rub cooked for crews and guests. Patterson said the event supported a cause close to many. Proceeds benefited Youth Reach of the Gulf Coast. “People have a chance to eat good food and help young people,” Patterson said. He described the program as a Christian rehabilitation center. The fundraiser boosted both awareness and support.

Organizers said the rodeo also educates the public. The tasks mirror movements used on job sites. Precision with buckets and blades translates to safer streets, cleaner ditches, and smoother storm recovery.

Crews frequently assist across city lines after hurricanes and floods. Knowing each other before a crisis speeds coordination. The rodeo setting, they said, strengthens those ties well before the next emergency.

The format also encourages healthy competition. Teams cheered for their own operators while respecting rivals. The friendly tone matched the event’s purpose. Everyone left with ideas to try at home.

Looking ahead, organizers expect more municipalities to join. A larger field would deepen the learning and the fun. It would also reflect how regional public works already operate.

City leaders praised the hosts and vendors. They said the setting at Graham Creek was ideal. Open space allowed multiple courses to run safely. Crowds could watch from a comfortable distance.

The day ended with handshakes and photos. Orange Beach held the top spot, but every team gained something. Crews compared notes, swapped tips, and returned home better connected.

Residents left with a new appreciation for unseen work. The same precision that nudged a ball into a target keeps neighborhoods running. The rodeo put those essential skills on display.