COLUMBUS, Ind. — Two Columbus city employees are gearing up to compete in an event that tests the skills of some of local government’s unsung heroes.
Bus driver Ralph Haywood and mechanic/substitute driver Greg Noel will compete in the National Community Transportation “Roadeo” in Louisville, Kentucky on May 13 and 14.
The “Roadeo” is “the only national venue to honor and celebrate the value of rural and community transit operators, the backbone of the Community Transportation industry,” according to the National Community Transportation Association.
“This exciting event draws drivers from around the country to compete for top scores on course that tests skills on every level of the drivers’ abilities, with a primary focus on safe operations and passenger sensitivity,” organizers wrote.
Department of Public Works Director Bryan Burton recognized Noel and Haywood’s achievement at a recent Columbus Board of Works meeting. Both men competed in the Indiana’s Community Transportation Roadeo on April 9 at Columbus Municipal Airport. The competition included a written test, a driving obstacle course, a passenger assistance evaluation and a pre-trip inspection.
Noel finished first and Haywood second at the state event, which qualifies both men to attend the National Community Transportation Roadeo.
“I’ll be down there rooting them on and hopefully we can bring back a trophy,” said Burton.
For more on this story, see Saturday’s Republic.
