ABQ RIDE held its annual Bus Roadeo at the Mayor David Rusk Facility, providing a day of activities for staff and their families to show appreciation for transit workers. The event, which took place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., included various activities such as an obstacle course, food, music, and games.
The Bus Roadeo is modeled after traditional rodeos but uses buses and other equipment instead of horses. This year’s event continued the tradition that was revived in 2024 after a 20-year hiatus. Staff participated in themed activities including cowboy regalia, “wanted” posters, and a range of family-friendly entertainment.
Pauline Alvarado, event coordinator, stated: “It’s extremely important for the community to recognize transit workers. We want to keep our drivers and staff happy to continue rolling forward good, quality public service with excellent customer service – that’s how you build pride in ABQ RIDE. The Bus Roadeo fuels that pride, and we hope to see drivers go on to bigger state and national roadeo competitions.”
David Manzano, a Motorcoach Operator, emphasized the role of all employees: “Transit workers are the backbone of public transportation, keeping communities connected by providing access to essential and recreational destinations. Appreciation extends beyond drivers to include the dedicated maintenance, dispatch, planning, and cleaning staff who keep the entire system running.”
Bus roadeos are common in the transit industry as they foster friendly competition while promoting skill development and safety among participants. At this year’s event, mechanics, Sun Van chauffeurs, motorcoach operators, and supervisors competed in maneuvers such as serpentines and passenger stops. Judges timed and scored competitors across four categories.
Winners were announced for each group:
Motorcoach Operators:
1 – Valente Garcia
2 – Art Herrera
3 – Gwen Vandamme
Sun Van Chauffeurs:
1 – Jayme Sanchez
2 – Gary Sena
Mechanics:
1 – Joseph Lente
2 – Martin Gamboa
3 – Andrew Benray
Executive:
1 – Mike Davis
Transit Director Leslie Keener said: “Today on the Bus Roadeo course, our drivers and mechanics demonstrated the same tenacious team spirit, determination, grit, resilience, and focus they do in their roles here at ABQ RIDE, all while having a hootin’ hollerin’ good time. By hosting this annual appreciation day, we celebrate the great people behind the transit system who keep our City moving and connected. Days like this are not only important for morale but support team retention to keep our transit system cruising!”
Regular ABQ RIDE services continued without interruption during the event. For questions or Sun Van scheduling during regular hours (8 a.m.–5 p.m.), customers can call 243-RIDE.
Sponsors included local businesses such as Complete Coach Works and Dion’s.
Information about jobs at ABQ RIDE can be found at ABQRIDE.com.
ABQ RIDE’s mission is to provide safe, clean, and reliable transportation for Albuquerque residents.
