This challenge at the annual Metro Roadeo tests a driver's ability to pull close to the curb for passenger boarding, and then pull into traffic without coming in contact with other buses at the curb. Photo by Burke McMurdo.
Every year, Metro Transit tests the skills and abilities of its drivers at the annual Roadeo.
The contest challenges employees to keep their skills current, encourages continued mastery of all aspects of equipment operation, and sets an example for the best safety practices. Winners frequently advance to regional, state and international competition.
The 33rd annual competition was held last Saturday, and perennial favorite Michael Grady won the event. It was the seventh Metro championship for the East Base operator.
Grady bested about 30 other top Metro drivers. Following him in the top ten were: Tammy Klein, Atlantic Base; Tom Ponischil, South Base; Janet Palmer, Atlantic; Mel Nason, North; Daniel McKinney, Central; Dennis Caputo, Ryerson; Dustin Toms, East; David Crock, Ryerson; and Gloria Mingori, south. Grady now advances to represent Metro in the state roadeo later this year.
Other awards went to: Paul Tefft, Atlantic, first place maverick operator; Ryan Stringfellow, East vehicle maintenance, first place maverick non-operator; Ravi Chand, Atlantic, best score first-time competitor; and Paul Tefft, Atlantic, most-improved roadeo score.
