Community, Springfield

Michael Funderburk II wins LTD’s Bus Rodeo

Lane Transit District (LTD) employees competed in the annual Bus Roadeo this past Sunday, June 9 in LTD’s Glenwood bus yard.

Everyone from veteran bus operators and administrative staff to senior leadership had the chance to drive one of the 40-foot LTD buses through the obstacle course while competing in different divisions.

This course required drivers to maneuver through cones and tennis balls, pull up to passenger stops, reverse the bus, and speed through barrels before stopping in front of a cone. Each driver was scored on their driving precision and the time taken to complete the course.

The day before this year’s Bus Roadeo, Michael Funderburk II joked that so long as he scores the highest in his family, he’ll be happy. He’s worked at LTD for 12 years now, but three of his four kids are also now employed by LTD.

This was his lucky year.

The winner of the Masters Division, Funderburk, will compete in the International Bus Roadeo in Austin, Texas, in April 2025. The event is organized by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA).

Lane Transit District Bus Roadeo winner Michael Funderburk II will attend the International Bus Roadeo in Austin, Texas, in April 2025. Above, a judge measures one of the tests.

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