Bus drivers at the Walt Disney World Resort are often the unsung heroes of people’s vacations. Every day, thousands of guests are transported around the Walt Disney World Resort via these magical buses. The drivers ensure that guests can get to their destination efficiently, safely, and with a healthy dose of Disney magic. Recently, these drivers got to experience a bit of magic of their own in the form of a friendly competition. Called a “Roadeo,” the bus drivers had the opportunity to tackle a challenge course with a 10-minute time limit. The challenge course is designed to test precision, safety, and skill. It also crowns a top driver for the resort. Take a look below at what the Disney Parks Blog shared about this special competition.

What Is Bus Roadeo?

Imagine hands-on training fueled by pixie dust. Disney Transportation leaders design a course full of challenges – from tight turns to a sudden stop at 30 miles per hour – all based on real situations our drivers encounter every day while keeping guests safe.

If you’re going to practice, why not make it fun?

_{Bus Roadeo events have been held at Disney World since the late 1980s. In these photos, 2012 (left) and 2016 (right) Bus Roadeo judges and participants pose after a day of competition.}

The History of Bus Roadeo at Disney World

Roadeos began with national transit groups in the 1930s and evolved from early truck‑driving competitions into widespread bus‑focused events.

Leaning on those industry best practices, Disney World introduced Bus Roadeo decades ago as an opportunity to continue focusing on safety while creating a fun way to build camaraderie among bus drivers, trainers, and dispatchers. And yes, bragging rights are definitely part of the appeal.

Disney World’s Best Bus Driver

This year’s champion is Doc, a 10‑year Disney bus driver who crushed the course with an impressive time of 8 minutes and 26 seconds.

“It’s overwhelming,” Doc said. “I had no idea I won, and I really wasn’t expecting it. There are so many good drivers, so it’s an honor. I’m so happy.”

Safety is Doc’s number one priority on the Animal Kingdom bus team, and Bus Roadeo gave him the perfect stage to show it off.

Competing At the State Level

Winning Bus Roadeo comes with more than bragging rights for Doc. He’s going on to compete in the Florida Triple Crown Roadeo, presented by the Florida Public Transportation Association.

Taking place right here in Orlando, the 2026 event starts tomorrow and will bring together top bus drivers from across the state.

After working 25 years in public transit in Michigan and another five in Texas before joining Disney, Doc is bringing decades of experience to the state competition.

“I’m bringing all the skills I’ve learned over the years, so I’ll be at the top of my game,” Doc said.

Congratulations to all of the Disney bus drivers who competed in Bus Roadeo this year. We’re wishing Doc the very best of luck as he represents Disney at the state competition!