Forklift rodeo highlights safety and showcases driving skills.

The 13thAnnual U.S. Open Forklift Rodeo & Safety Expo, recently held in Springfield, Ohio, drew contestants and fans came from around the U.S. and as far away as the United Kingdom and Portugal.  The panel of judges also had international representation, with judges hailing from the U.S. and U.K.

In Yale forklift trucks donated by KMH Systems, participants maneuvered around more than 500 safety cones in a number of competitive events, including a basketball shoot out. Drivers were also required to take a written exam testing their knowledge of forklift operations and safety procedures.

2009 rodeo results are in...

Championship Division

Champion: Kyle Burton, 3rd Overall, NEX Transport, East Liberty, Ohio, USA

1st Runner-up: Rich Reynolds, 5th Overall, M&M, Springfield, Ohio, USA

2nd Runner-up: Joaqium Canico, 6th Overall, Sumal & Compal, Lisbon, Portugal

Masters Division

Champion: Eric Zumbrun, 1st, KTH Parts Industries, St. Paris, Ohio, USA

1st Runner-up: Larry Lawrence, 2nd, KTH Parts Industries / St. Paris, Ohio, USA

2nd Runner-up: Stacy Lane, 4th, DWS, Inc., Columbus, Ohio, USA

2009 Overall Rodeo Champion

Eric Zumbrun, 1st, KTH Parts Industries, St. Paris, Ohio, USA

While the Forklift Rodeo grows each year, its focus remains on promoting the safe and efficient operation of powered industrial trucks in harmony with the OSHA Standard CFR 1910.178, Powered Industrial Trucks.