March 17, 2003 11:30 AM CST

2003 Fastest Trowel Competition

By Colin Faul

At left, the first place winner was Rex Allen, Cunningham Masonry, FL.

One of the highlights of the final day of the Masonry Showcase on March 15th was the Fastest Trowel on the Block competition. Sponsored by Spec Mix, thirteen competitors from different parts of the country competed for the honor and a first prize of $5,000, as well as other prizes.

From the opening horn to the close after 20 minutes of furious activity, each trowel man, with a two-person support crew, worked to lay as many concrete blocks as possible.

Speed was not the only criteria when it came to judging the results of their efforts. A team of judges examined each 24-foot wall to ensure that the wall met the right standards in six exacting categories.

The first place prize was awarded to Rex Allen, Cunningham Masonry, Fla. He was ably supported by Kenneth Eiland and Charles Harris.

Second place and $2,500 went to Pascal Robertson, Pascal Robertson Masonry, Fla., and third place and $1,000 to Glen Houghton Sr., Houghton Masonry, Iowa.

In overall charge of the competition were co-chairmen, Steven Fechino, WASCO, Inc. and Harry McGraw, Lucia, Inc.

The following companies made generous donations of materials and prizes:

Crick Levels - the levels used in the competition, as well as the prize levels for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place.
MultiQuip - two mortar mixers.
OmniQuip Textron - forklift use.
Red Brookshire of Florida - competition materials.
RMC Ewell Inc. - concrete blocks.
Spec Mix - mortar.

For further information contact Colin Faul, MCAA Director of Professional Development, at (800) 536-2225 or cfaul@masoncontractors.com.

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About the Author

Colin Faul was the Director of Marketing and Director of Professional Development for the Mason Contractors Association of America.