Live Drilling Competition
The HDD Rodeo features elite directional drilling crews competing in a standardized test of precision, accuracy, and speed. Each crew faces the same challenging course under the same conditions, creating a fair and objective comparison of skill and technology.
The competition is the centerpiece of the event—a thrilling showcase of what separates the best crews from the rest. Spectators watch in real time as experienced operators demonstrate their mastery of directional drilling.
Beyond bragging rights and trophies, competitors vie for over $260,000 in cash prizes and equipment donations from industry sponsors committed to advancing HDD excellence.
Bore Length
240 Feet
Maximum Crews
25 Teams
Crew Size
3 Operators
Course Type
Variable Depth & Angle
Judging Criteria
Line Accuracy
Horizontal accuracy from start to finish. Crews must maintain the bore within specified tolerances throughout the entire 240-foot run.
Grade Accuracy
Vertical accuracy and depth control. Judges measure how precisely each crew maintains the required grade profile from entry to exit.
Speed & Efficiency
Time to completion. Faster bores demonstrate operator skill, equipment capability, and crew coordination—but not at the expense of accuracy.
Eligibility & Requirements
To Compete
- Licensed directional drilling contractor
- Current business liability insurance
- Crew of 3 experienced operators
- HDD equipment meeting specifications
- Safety certifications up to date
- Entry fee (see pricing below)
- Agreement to competition rules
Required Documentation
- Business license & contractor license
- Proof of insurance (minimum $1M)
- Crew member safety certifications
- Equipment specification sheets
- Signed liability waiver
- Equipment inspection completion
- Rules & regulations acknowledgment
HDD Rodeo’s Prize Breakdown (2024)
Total Prize Pool: $260,000+ in Cash and Equipment
1st Place
$139,000
Plus Equipment
Cash prize plus premium equipment packages from leading manufacturers donated by event sponsors.
2nd Place
$57,250
Plus Equipment
Cash prize plus premium equipment packages from leading manufacturers donated by event sponsors.
3rd Place
$32,750
Plus Equipment
Cash prize plus premium equipment packages from leading manufacturers donated by event sponsors.
Bonus Prizes & Awards
Beyond overall placement, competitors can earn additional recognition and prizes for categories including: Best Line Accuracy, Best Grade Accuracy, Fastest Time, Best Safety Performance, and the coveted Canon Cup. Additional equipment donations from sponsors are distributed as special achievement awards throughout the event.
Ready to Compete?
Register your crew for the HDD Rodeo 2026. Join the best directional drillers in the nation for competition, recognition, and prizes.