Alexandria Transit’s DASH operator Clarence “Action” Jackson won first place with the highest score over all competitors in the annual Virginia State Bus Roadeo competition on Sunday, April 3. Approximately 200 competitors, transit system staff, volunteers and judges converged on Woodbridge, Va. to participate in the weekend activities. Drivers and mechanics from local transit systems across Virginia competed in the event. DASH bus operators Michelle Willis and
James Toliver placed second and third, respectively, in the DASH team.
The Roadeo tests the driving and knowledge skills of bus operators in an obstacle course that mirrors the specific driving maneuvers and encounters frequently experienced in the course of their daily work behind the wheel of their bus. The drivers must demonstrate safety habits and smoothness of operation and are rated on both while driving through each situation on the course. They are also tested on their abilities in a pre-trip inspection and written test.
“Clarence is very passionate about his driving ability. Alexandria Transit is so proud of Clarence and all of our Roadeo participants,” stated Sandy Modell, DASH’s general manager. Jackson has won the state competition three times before, in 2005, 2007 and 2010.
As a result of winning this year, Jackson will be sent by the Virginia Transit Association (VTA) to the International Roadeo competition in Memphis, Tenn. in May.
