Novi, September 11, 2025
News Summary
The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) held its first Bus Roadeo in 40 years in Novi, featuring a competitive event for local bus drivers. Six drivers from the region navigated a challenging obstacle course designed to test their precision and driving skills. Attended by SMART employees and families, the event celebrated the dedication and achievement of public transit operators with live entertainment and food options. Willie Kendall, a SMART bus operator, won the Roadeo and will represent the agency at a national competition in Utah.
Novi
The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) hosted its first Bus Roadeo in 40 years on Saturday, showcasing the skills of six bus drivers from Oakland, Macomb, and Wayne counties. The event took place at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi and featured an obstacle course designed to test the driving precision and expertise of local operators.
During the Roadeo, drivers navigated through tight turns and reverse maneuvers while maintaining a speed of at least 15 miles per hour. They competed to keep lined and staggered orange cones upright while completing the course in the shortest time possible. The event was attended by approximately 50 employees of SMART and their families, who enjoyed live music, food trucks, and bounce houses as part of the festivities.
SMART General Manager Tiffany J. Gunter emphasized the importance of the event in recognizing the commitment of bus drivers to community service. She noted that the Roadeo aimed to highlight the professionalism, precision, and safety of the drivers under real-world driving conditions. With 426 operators and mechanics providing service over 2,100 surface miles in southeastern Michigan, the event served as a platform to celebrate their hard work.
Willie Kendall, a SMART bus operator since 2018, emerged as the winner of the Roadeo and will represent SMART at a national competition in Salt Lake City, Utah. The event is designed to create “bragging rights” for local drivers, positioning the Roadeo as an annual tradition aimed at honoring public transit drivers. Gunter was inspired to revive the Roadeo after observing a similar international competition, indicating her intent to make it a yearly affair.
Participants had to meet strict selection criteria, requiring them to have no accidents, violations, or complaints over the previous year. Semaj Richardson, a bus driver with six years of experience, expressed enthusiasm for the chance to demonstrate his skills. He noted the challenges presented by the course, particularly the need for meticulous control when handling the bus.
Parris Bennett, who has driven buses for a decade, described reversing to stop within 36 inches of a designated area as the most difficult aspect of the course. He acknowledged the challenge of maintaining accuracy while navigating tight spaces, with an admission of knocking over cones during turns.
The Bus Roadeo represents a significant moment for SMART as they foster a culture of skill enhancement and recognition for their drivers. The event not only spotlights individual talent but also underscores the critical role that bus operators play in maintaining effective public transportation services in the region.
Key Details of the SMART Bus Roadeo
- Event: SMART Bus Roadeo
- Location: Suburban Collection Showplace, Novi
- Duration: First in 40 years
- Participants: 6 bus drivers from Oakland, Macomb, and Wayne counties
- Winner: Willie Kendall (advancing to national contest)
- Attendees: Approximately 50 SMART employees and families
- Criteria for Participation: No accidents, violations, or complaints in the past year
Background Context
The Bus Roadeo is not just a contest; it stands as a symbol of appreciation for public sector employees within the SMART network. This initiative of reviving the Roadeo reflects a broader commitment to celebrate hard work and excellence in public transport, creating a space where drivers can demonstrate their skills while fostering community and professionalism.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Bus Roadeo?
A Bus Roadeo is a competition designed for bus drivers to showcase their driving skills and proficiency in bus operation through various driving challenges and obstacle courses.
Who organized the Bus Roadeo?
The Bus Roadeo was organized by the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART).
How often will the Bus Roadeo take place?
The SMART Bus Roadeo is intended to be an annual event, following its revival after 40 years.
Who were the participants in the Bus Roadeo?
Six bus drivers from Oakland, Macomb, and Wayne counties participated in the Roadeo.
What does the winner receive?
The winner of the SMART Bus Roadeo will advance to a national competition held in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Chart: Key Features of the SMART Bus Roadeo
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Name | SMART Bus Roadeo |
| Location | Novi, Suburban Collection Showplace |
| Duration | First event in 40 years |
| Judging Criteria | Maintain upright cones, complete course quickly |
| Participants | Six drivers |
| Winner | Willie Kendall, qualified for national competition |
| Attendance | Approximately 50 employees and families |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- The Detroit News: SMART Bus Drivers Showcase Skills at Novi Roadeo
- Click on Detroit: Oakland County Hosts SMART Bus Roadeo
- Wikipedia: Public Transport
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Transportation
- Google Search: USA Public Transportation Events
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
