On May 30th nearly 40 employees from all over Southern Alberta gathered to compete in the 35th annual School Bus Roadeo, one of the fiercest competitions at Southland! The day began at 8:00am, with individuals rolling in, smiling, and mingling with one another to prepare themselves mentally and physically for the challenges ahead. Preparation began with a Stampede style breakfast that consisted of pancakes, bacon, and sausages to fuel our competitors for the tasks ahead. As well, SOUTHLAND’S very own Aubrey Hogan and his band Rox Retro blasted classic tunes to pump up the competitors.
The nine events completed throughout the day were pre-trip inspection, stop line, diminishing clearance, right turn, straight line, student loading, off set alley, curb line event, and back up. These are some of the most challenging tasks faced by our drivers and demonstrate commitment to both safety and the skills required to maneuver a 26,000 pound bus better than any bus driver has ever done before. As the competition rolled into the afternoon competitors gathered for a feast of hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, and pop, paired with more outstanding classics from Rox Retro. After the short break and with their eyes on the trophy, competitors returned for their remaining events. It was now down to the wire for ultimate SOUTHLAND Roadeo supremacy!
As the dust settled and judges tallied the scores there was only one thing left to do – award our champions and give away door prizes! Congratulations to all of our winners, with a special congrats to the Calgary Board of Education team who walked away with the Best Honorary SOUTHLAND Driver award (as pictured) We thank all the participants, volunteers, and special guests for making the event a rootin’ tootin’ good time!
The Provincial Roadeo will be held in High River on June 6th and 7th.
Calgary Board of Education team walked away with the Best Honorary Southland Driver award