Public Invited As MTA Drivers Test Their Skills In 'Roadeo' Competition
BALTIMORE (WJZ)—This weekend the best of Baltimore's bus drivers will test their navigating abilities on a rigorous obstacle course.
Monique Griego has more on what you'll see at the MTA Roadeo.
Strap in and buckle up because Baltimore bus drivers are about to put their skills to the test.
"It's something I've been doing for a long time, 37 years," said Stanley Johnson.
Johnson is hoping all that experience helps him edge out the competition at this weekend's MTA Roadeo obstacle course contest.
"This basically challenges their ability to maneuver through tight spaces," said MTA administrator Ralign Wells.
The Roadeo contest began in 1980 as a way to showcase the best drivers while highlighting safety.
Once the drivers get behind the wheel and put their foot on the gas, they have exactly seven minutes to make it through the course.
Now instead of people and curbs, cones are the obstacles.
"There is quite a bit of pressure because you want to do well," Johnson said.
Wells knows how tough a job parallel parking a MTA bus can be. He used to drive one. He even got behind the wheel for last year's competition.
"You can't touch anything, and you have to be very safe," he said.
The driver who comes out on top moves to the international finals in California.
"This is like the playoffs to the Super Bowl," Wells said.
This is the second year the Roadeo will be open to public.
Johnson hopes you come to watch him run away with first place.
"I'm in it to win it," he said.
In addition to the course, there will also be an antique bus show, food and activities for kids. The event is Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Reisterstown Plaza Station.
