Teamster Bus Driver Leo Valencia Takes Top Honors at 2016 Annual Bus Roadeo and Conference

Teamster Leo Valencia who is a driver for North Central Regional Transit District took first place in the Cutaway Bus competition at this year’s Bus Roadeo and Conference.  The April 3 event was held during the Annual Conference and Expo which took place at the Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces in Las Cruces, New Mexico. (See Photos Here)

A warm round of congratulations from NCRTD Board Members and Board meeting attendees greeted Leo on April 8 where NCRTD Executive Director, Anthony Mortillaro, presented him with the NMPTA plaque honoring him for his First Place finish.

As winner of the New Mexico State Roadeo, Leo went to Portland for the National Roadeo event at the Community Transportation Association Expo in May where he, along with other New Mexico Roadeo conference winners, represented the Land of Enchantment. This is the 4^th time in the last 5 years Leo has won 1^st place in the state competition. Leo placed 14^th in the national competition.   

Leo Valencia drives for the RTD 340 Chile Line Red and began driving for the Chile Line in back in 2010.

Always a highlight of the Annual NMPTA Conference, the Roadeo is a fun and friendly challenge among transit drivers from across the State.  What might look like a maze of randomly placed orange cones to the untrained eye, the expert drivers know exactly what they need to do to maneuver the course with precision.  The timed course contains obstacles that test every phase a bus operator encounters under normal driving conditions.  In addition to driving skills and written test, participants are also tested on ADA wheelchair securement standards and pre-trip vehicle inspection.

The competition is a showcase of vehicle operator skills and promotes safety, professionalism and excellence in transit operations.