A Community Steps Up
What began as a six-week idea grew into a remarkable outpouring of generosity as hundreds gathered on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the Lovettsville Game Protective Association for the first-ever Top Gun Construction Rodeo, an event benefiting 11-year-old Pierce Cole, who is fighting T-Cell Acute Lymphoblast Leukemia. More than $25,000 was raised, with additional donations still coming in and every dollar will be given directly to the Cole family.
Competition With Heart
From 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., skilled heavy-equipment operators competed head-to-head in timed challenges that showcased the talent, precision, and camaraderie within our industry. Local contractors provided 14 pieces of equipment, creating a powerful visual reminder of how deeply the construction community cares for its own. A new CAT machine, made available thanks to a LICA member, became a huge hit for kids, who eagerly waited in line to try the $5 tire-stacking challenge with all proceeds going directly to Pierce’s family, one of the day’s most memorable attractions.
Crowds, Cheers, and Standout Attractions
Attendance exceeded all expectations, with roughly 300 cars filling the lot and families cheering operators through every challenge. Support also came from leading dealers such as Carter CAT, James River Equipment , JCB, Virginia Maryland Tractor, and Linder Komatsu, who stepped up to ensure the competition grounds were fully equipped and ready for action.
A 6-by-6-foot drone, brought in by supporter Sean Keane, drew crowds as it soared above the event grounds, demonstrating advanced technology for spreading grass seed and fertilizer. It wasn’t just entertaining; it turned into a teaching moment for both the young and the young at heart.
Acts of Generosity
The silent auction delivered both excitement and heartfelt generosity. A CAT cooler sold for $1,000 and then the winner immediately donated it back to the family. Meanwhile, a bowling ball stopped two children in their tracks. They wanted it, badly, but only had one penny to offer. They placed their bid, and when no one challenged them, they proudly walked away with their prize to cheers from the crowd.
The Moment That Said It All
Event organizer Dave Gallahan said one memory will forever define the day. “Pierce’s dad, Fred, just walked up and hugged me,” Dave recalled. “He couldn’t say thank you enough. There were hugs and tears from people I didn’t even know.”
Fred, Dave said, is not someone who ever asks for help. But on this day, the community made sure he didn’t need to.
“It’s about coming together—laying everything aside. Cancer can hit anyone anywhere. We try to help in any way,” Dave shared.
“All these guys helping are construction guys. We do care about families and community.” Dave credits an incredible team effort for pulling off such a meaningful first-year event with almost no lead time: Eric and Jenny Gordon (new VA LICA Vice President and Secretary), Glen Brown of Carter CAT, and VA LICA Executive Director Millie Gallahan.
A New Tradition Begins
The event banner originally read “Construction Rodeo.” But Dave made one important change right before printing: adding “1st Annual”. When people noticed, they cheered because they knew they were part of something special. Even through the challenges of planning a major fundraiser so quickly, Dave never wavered.
“I didn’t realize how hard it was to put together an event like this,” he admitted. “But it wasn’t about me. Only Cole mattered.”
With overwhelming support, strong industry backing, and a purpose that touched every heart on the property, the Top Gun Construction Rodeo is poised to become a proud annual tradition, uniting contractors, operators, and families in a shared mission to lift each other up.
Because when one member of the construction community hurts, we show up.