Metro Bus Operators to showcase skills in friendly competition May 18

Metro Bus Operators will compete for top honors at the Local Bus Roadeo scheduled to start at noon on Thursday, May 18 at the St. Cloud State University (SCSU) K-Lot next to the Herb Brooks National Hockey Center. The competition is free to watch and open to the public.

“This is an opportunity for the public to witness the great skill it takes to drive Fixed Route and Dial-a-Ride buses,” said Ryan I. Daniel, Chief Executive Officer for Metro Bus. “The closed course presents the Bus Operators with challenges much like those they face on the road every day. It is always exciting to watch our Operators showcase their skills on the obstacle course while they enjoy friendly competition with their colleagues.”

The Bus Roadeo is a chance for Bus Operators in both Fixed Route (commonly referred to as city buses or large buses) and Dial-a-Ride (paratransit small buses) divisions to showcase their driving skills. Operators are scored on their ability to navigate a timed obstacle course comprised of orange road cones, an acceleration requirement and other tests mimicking real-life driving scenarios.

Metro Bus has held Local Bus Roadeo competitions since 1986. The top finishers in each division qualify to compete in the Minnesota Statewide Bus Roadeo to be held in July in Rochester, MN. Top finishers at the state level are also eligible to compete in their respective national/international competition.
There is a rich history of excellence in local, state and national/international bus roadeo competitions for Metro Bus Operators. Over the years, Operators have taken first place in the Minnesota State Roadeo 24 times and have placed in the top four in national/international competitions eight times including two first place finishes.

The Local Roadeo is the first step towards bus-driving greatness for these essential public servants. If you are able, please join us at SCSU on May 18 to cheer on your favorite Metro Bus Operators!

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 opportunity for the public to witness the great skill 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 exciting to watch our Operators showcase their skills on the obstacle course while they enjoy friendly competition with their colleagues.”

Ryan I. Daniel, Chief Executive Officer for Metro Bus