CATS Operators to Compete in Annual Bus Roadeo

Published on March 26, 2025

CATS Operators to Compete in Annual Bus Roadeo with Hopes of Advancement to NCPTA State Roadeo 

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) will hold its annual Bus Roadeo competition at the Charlotte Vehicle Operations Center (CVOC) on Saturday, March 29 at 8 a.m. CVOC is located at 2725 Beam Road in Charlotte.  

CATS has a longstanding tradition hosting bus roadeos, with the first for the organization held in 1981. The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) has also been organizing a “Bus Roadeo” for many years, with the first in 1971. 

Qualified operators from the CATS Bus Operations Division and Special Transportation Service will put their safe driving skills through a series of challenging tests. Competitors will be judged on how safely and timely they complete the course, in addition to completing a written safety test. Winners will advance to the next round of competition at the State Roadeo, which will be held during the North Carolina Public Transportation Association Conference in Cherokee, NC, from April 25-30, 2025. This event serves as a precursor to the International Bus Roadeo, hosted by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), where champions from across the nation will gather to showcase their talents. 

"CATS Bus Roadeo is more than an annual event,” CATS Chief Operations Officer Victoria Johnson said. “It's an opportunity to highlight the courage and commitment of our hardworking operators. Watching them put their skills to the test reminds us of the integral role they play in helping move people forward. I am tremendously proud of each participant.” 

Families of CATS operators are also invited to participate in the family fun zone. Winners from the Bus Roadeo will be announced at the conclusion of the event.

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