Teams, sponsors needed for sixth Labor Tug-O-War Sept. 7

Competition will follow Labor Day parade in downtown St. Louis

There’s still time to sign-up for the sixth Labor Tug-O-War, to see which local has what it takes to topple two-time champions Sprinkler Fitters Local 268.

A portion of the proceeds will benefit the $5 for the Fight fund to help out-of-work union members in need of financial assistance.

The competition will be held in downtown St. Louis on Labor Day, Sept. 7, immediately following the annual parade. Teams and sponsors are needed.

The union competition is joint project of the Rockwood and Tri-County Labor Clubs.

“We know many locals have a gathering back at their union hall or at an area park, but we are hoping they are able to man a team to participate immediately after the parade,” said Event Chairman and Rockwood Labor Club President Marty McClimens, a member of Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 562.

“Who knows?” McClimens said. “They may even be able to beat the Sprinkler Fitters and take the trophy or a medal back to their gathering along with some bragging rights.”

The Tug-O-War is open to all locals in Missouri and Southern Illinois.

The tug will be held in Kaufman Park at 13th and Chestnut streets and starting at 11:30 a.m. –– barring any delays. The Labor Day parade kicks off at 9 a.m. and usually lasts two hours.

FUN FOR ALL

The day’s activities will include:

• A double elimination contest with medals going to the top four teams and the winner taking home the travelling Greg Booth/Dee Sprayberry Memorial Crystal Trophy, named after the late IBEW Local 1 Business Manager Booth and late Operating Engineers Local 513 veteran Business Representative Sprayberry. The medals and trophy presentations will take place about 1:30 p.m.
• A kids tug-o-war halfway through the event, with candy for all participants.
• Fun and excitement for everyone as the crowds cheer on their champions.

Food and drinks will be provided by local unions.

$5 FOR THE FIGHT

A portion of the funds raised will go to the $5 for the Fight Fund to help out-of-work union members and their families.

Last year’s event raised $13,500 for the fund.

SPONSORS NEEDED

As an important part of the fund raising effort, sponsorships are available. Contact McClimens at 314-920-1404 or email: mcclimens@local562.org.