2024 winning cable jointer Taylor Simmonds is looking to repeat his success at Annual Connection.
Annual Connection 2024 winning cable jointer, Taylor Simmonds from Omexom in Auckland is gearing up to defend his title at the 2025 event at Christchurch’s Canterbury Agricultural Park, 21-23 October.
“I’ve prepared differently this year. Last year I didn’t know what to expect but this year I know what I need to do – and I’ve trained accordingly which I hope has helped.”
“I definitely feel more pressure this year as it feels like I’ve got more to lose. And, being in the South Island I’ll get to go against a whole different set of jointers which will be good competition.”
This year’s competition is particularly important to Taylor. “My best mate Sam Johnson was meant to come down this year and compete, but early in the year he lost his battle with cancer. I wanted to come down and compete in honour of him and try to take out first place again.”
Taylor believes the secret to his success at last year’s event was the backing he had from Omexom and support from his mates who came to see him compete. “I got a week off to get ready and train. I was very grateful that my company could sacrifice that time. I really appreciated it.”
Aside from his win, a highlight of attending Annual Connection last year for Taylor was the opportunity to meet other people working in the same industry. “It’s a very niche industry and getting to bond and grow with fellow cable jointers and line mechanics was great.
“I love attending Annual Connection because I get to be a part of an event that really recognises and appreciates what we all do to keep the power on and showcase how we do it safely and efficiently.”