Anderson Drivers Put Their Skills to the Test at Friendly Bus Rodeo Competition
A team of Anderson Coach & Travel employees recently traveled to Avon, New York, to participate in a friendly Bus Rodeo hosted by Niagara Scenic Tours. The event brought together professional motorcoach operators for a day of competition, teamwork and camaraderie around coach bus travel.
The annual event challenged luxury motorcoach drivers to demonstrate the precision and skills they use every day behind the wheel. This year's competition featured a 5-on-5 team challenge, including a parallel parking course and a luggage-loading race. The top two competitors from each team advanced to a final driving course, where drivers put their abilities to the test in a fun, supportive environment. These skills translate seamlessly to why both companies successfully travel bus tours North America wide.
While Niagara Scenic claimed this year's traveling trophy, the event wasn't just about winning, noted organizer Anderson Training Manager Greg Gray. It was an opportunity for drivers from both companies to spend time together, build new friendships and celebrate the professionalism that defines the motorcoach industry, he said.
Representing Anderson Coach & Travel were drivers Branden Valesko, Ron Neubert, Aarron Funk, Carrie Manners and Chrissy Bowser, along with Chief Operating Officer Evan Anderson, Training Manager Greg Gray and Logistics Coordinator Kristen Zelker.
Pictured above: Top row, L-R - Greg Gray Training Manager, Evan, Driver Branden Valesko, Driver Ron Neubert. Middle row, L-R - Driver Aarron Funk, Logistics Coordinator Kristen Zelker, Driver Carrie Manners. Bottom row, Driver Chrissy Bowser.
"The purpose of the event was to enjoy a friendly competition while spending quality time with our motorcoach drivers," Gray said. "It gave drivers a chance to show off their skills, embrace their competitive side and celebrate their love for the industry."
Gray said he was proud of the way the Anderson team represented the company throughout the day.
"I enjoyed every conversation we had and the competitive spirit each and every one of you brought to the experience," he said. "It was great seeing everyone come together as a team, first-hand. I was really proud of each and every one of you. This is the Anderson Coach & Travel way."
Although passengers may not think about it while enjoying a comfortable trip, professional motorcoach driving requires exceptional precision, patience and attention to detail. Events like the Bus Rodeo highlight the skills drivers use every day to safely maneuver large vehicles, load luggage efficiently and provide excellent service to passengers.
More importantly, the event served as a reminder that the motorcoach industry and the professional agencies we are proud to be a part of are built on more than buses. It's built on dedicated professionals who take pride in their work, support one another and never stop learning.
Congratulations to Niagara Scenic on this year's victory, and congratulations to all of the Anderson team members who proudly represented our company.
Here are a few of our favorite photographs from the event, taken by Anderson’s Alex Ho.
Interested in becoming part of the Anderson team?
At Anderson Coach & Travel, our drivers are more than employees—they're professional ambassadors for our company and the communities we serve. We invest in training, provide modern equipment, and foster a team culture where safety, customer service and professionalism come first. If you're looking for a rewarding career behind the wheel, we'd love to hear from you. Learn more about driving opportunities with Anderson Coach & Travel.
Looking to get away to Niagara Falls?
Anderson Coach & Travel has options for all types of travelers. Our tour department offers overnight and day trips to both sides of the falls – remember you need a passport or Real ID to cross into Canada now! – with the ability to choose your own activity level. Sightseeing bus tours and bus tours for seniors are a specialty for our group travel team. Niagara Falls is also an ideal group travel option in our region. Get a free quote from our charter bus rental team for your team, club, family.
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