Maybe this ain’t your first Roadeo (yes, that’s how it’s spelled). But if it is, buckle up: in public bus circles, the International Bus Roadeo, run by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) is the ultimate test of skill. A Roadeo is a bus-handling competition held annually, challenging public bus agencies to pit their top operators against an obstacle course of hard turns, quick stops, and serpentines—all timed, of course. For most operators, however, it is just another day at the office.
To qualify for the International Bus Roadeo, held this year in Austin, TX, agencies must first hold their own competitions, adhering to the same judging criteria, and course problems. County Connection hosts its competition in late Winter/early Spring, inviting any staff with a Class B driver’s license to participate. But only an APTA-qualified* operator winner can advance to the international stage.
Like County Connection, many agencies turn their local competitions into mini-industry-only events, inviting partner agencies for judging, food trucks, and even a bounce house for the kids—all fostering a spirit of camaraderie and friendly rivalry. And yes, there is a good chance for everyone to ride through a bus wash while singing “The Wheels on the Bus”—pure joy for both kids and kids-at-heart!
On the international stage, local competition winners face off against other top operators from around the country for the top prize. The operator with the highest score receives a trophy, Champion Ring, and $1,000. In addition to navigating the obstacle course, participants are evaluated on personal appearance and complete a pre-trip inspection of the bus—a true test of expertise.
While a simple left or right turn may seem easy, bus drivers navigate these 13-ton, 30–40-foot long vehicles daily, maneuvering through bustling freeways and narrow streets. Add in unexpected challenges like accidents or animals darting across the road, and the demands become clear. Bus operators possess skills often overlooked, or at least not easily noticed. With each trip, they must balance precision, quick thinking, stellar customer service, and a high level of professionalism. It’s no wonder so many agencies strive for excellence at the APTA International Bus Roadeo, displaying the remarkable skill set required to sit behind the wheel of a bus.
In a time when County Connection and the public transit industry grapple with financial sustainability, recover ridership lost during the pandemic, and strive to fill numerous vacant operator positions, the Roadeo represents more than just a contest. It’s a point of pride for agencies; a reminder that while competition can be fierce, it’s the everyday dedication of operators that truly keeps our communities moving safely.
For over 25 years, County Connection has proudly sent over 10 operators to compete nationally, many of whom competed more than once. The agency also has the top female driver, who in 2010 ranked in at #4 nationally, and is still the top-scoring female competitor.
So, as drivers tackle the Roadeo gauntlet, both on small and big stages, they also reflect the real-life obstacles they face daily—because in the world of bus driving, every day can feel like a Roadeo.
*To be APTA-qualified, operators must not have had any accidents, suspensions, or attendance warnings in the year prior to competing.
