At the Rodeo
Rodeo fun includes bull riding, wild horse racing and clowns, but USU student Lance Hunter needs only an Aggie Shuttle.
Hunter serpentined his way through a course of orange cones to bring home first place in the big bus division at the Utah Urban Rural Specialized Transportation Association “Roadeo” on Sept. 22.
Along with the obstacle course Hunter completed a vehicle inspection, wheel chair lift to safety specifications and a written test. Other contest categories include the cut-away and 15-passenger van.
“This is the third time I’ve been to the state competition,” Hunter said. “Every year, I do the one here between CVTD and Aggie Shuttle.”
Winners of the yearly Cache Valley contest make their way to the state level to race for the covetous prize. In conjunction with URSTA conventions, the drivers take time out to show off their talents.
The URSTA provides services to many transportation services throughout the state. Promoting safety and education training to drivers is their hallmark. The association will provide whatever is needed or required by the drivers, Hunter said.
The transportation rivalry happens once a year, and invites competitors from across the state. Salt Lake City was the chosen destination for this year’s festivities, Hunter, along with a few others, was sent to represent Cache Valley.
CVTD drivers Jeff Spruance, who took 2nd place behind Hunter, and Sam Tingey, third place winner, aided in a Cache Valley sweeping of the big bus category.
“It’s kind of nice that Cache Valley always places in the top three,” Hunter said. “It shows the quality of drivers we have here, right?”
Hunter began his career with Aggie Shuttle five years ago. As a senior in electrical engineering, Hunter attempted to attend school while not working. But has found Aggie Shuttle to be a good way to earn money and keep up with schoolwork.
Aggie Shuttle driving has been enjoyable for Hunter. Meeting interesting people is the reason Hunter continues to circle campus. Carrying students to their destinations makes the job less monotonous.
“I actually really like it, admittedly it can get boring, but you always meet the people and that makes it fun, it’s why I keep doing it,” he said.
Routes change every semester for Hunter. This semester he carries students to Brigham City for extension classes. Running the extension shuttle takes more time, but instead of driving 10 circles Hunter is only driving one.
Music helps the day along, usually the kind that all commuters will enjoy. Bob Marley was the music of choice to end spring semester. Hunter plugs in his iPod and grooves his way through the day.
Hunter makes his way to the Community Transportation Association nationals in May to defend his big bus title.
“It’s a great conversation piece. I have a plaque and I put it on my wall. It’s not something that’s widely known, but it’s just fun,” Hunter said.
erin.wadsworth@aggiemail.usu.edu