Metro Bus Operators to compete in Local Bus Roadeo on May 16
Metro Bus Operators will showcase their skills in friendly competition for top honors at the Local Bus Roadeo scheduled to start at noon on Thursday, May 16 at the St. Cloud State University (SCSU) K-Lot next to the Herb Brooks National Hockey Center. The Roadeo is free to watch and open to the public.
Metro Bus has held Local Bus Roadeo events since 1986 with a rich history of excellence in local, state and national/international bus roadeos. Metro Bus Operators have taken first place in the Minnesota State Roadeo 25 times and have placed in the top four in national/international competitions eight times including two first place finishes.
During the Roadeo, Bus Operators from the Fixed Route (commonly referred to as city buses or large buses) and Dial-a-Ride (paratransit small buses) divisions will navigate a timed obstacle course comprised of orange road cones, an acceleration requirement and other tests mimicking real-life driving scenarios. Metro Bus staff will score maneuvers based on the Operators’ adeptness at avoiding cones, minimizing stops and starts, maintaining optimal distance from obstacles and more!
Top finishers in each division qualify to compete in the Minnesota Statewide Bus Roadeo to be held July 19-20 at Canterbury Park in Shakopee, MN. Top finishers at the state level are also eligible to advance to their respective national/international competition.
The Local Roadeo is a chance for members of the community to witness the capabilities of Metro Bus Operators! The skills that make Bus Operators successful on the roadeo course are the same ones they use to deliver safe, reliable, friendly public transportation services. If you are able, please join us at SCSU on May 16 to cheer on these great professionals!
For more information about state and national/international competitions:
- Minnesota State Roadeo hosted by the MPTA: mtpa-transit.org
- National Community Transit Roadeo (for small buses) hosted by the CTAA: ctaa.org
- International Bus Roadeo (for large buses) hosted by the American Public Transportation Association: apta.com
“This is an exciting opportunity for the public to witness the expertise it takes to drive Fixed Route and Dial-a-Ride buses. The closed course presents the Bus Operators with challenges much like those they face on the road every day. It is always exhilarating to watch our Operators display their mastery on the obstacle course while they enjoy a fun contest with their colleagues.”
Ryan I. Daniel, Chief Executive Officer for Metro Bus
