Metro News Release

For immediate release: April 28, 2003

Metrorail Rodeo Ridin into Town" on Saturday, May 3, 2003

Event at the Greenbelt rail yard from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. will also feature display of Vintage and Classic automobiles and motorcycles

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority will sponsor its 9th Annual Metrorail Rodeo this Saturday, May 3, 2003, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Greenbelt Yard, 5801 Sunnyside Avenue in College Park, Maryland. That’s when Metrorail Rodeo " cowboys" will " ride into town," ready to put their " buckin" broncos" -- Metrorail trains-- through their paces. Individual Metrorail operators and three-member mechanic teams will compete in various categories of rail operations and car maintenance events. " This rodeo gives rail employees a chance to showcase the skills they use everyday to provide exemplary, safe, and reliable service to our customers, the hallmarks which make Metro one of the best rail systems in the nation," stated Lem Proctor, Chief Operating Officer for Rail. In one of the events, operators will demonstrate how well they operate a train, including their focus on making clear and effective train announcements. They will also be judged on how well they are able to stop a train without touching an obstacle. Orange cones will represent obstacles on the track. In another event, mechanics will troubleshoot " problems," with trains hoisted in the air for mechanics to go beneath to make the necessary " repair." Operators and mechanics will be judged on professional appearance, and both groups will take a written test in addition to demonstrating their skills in timed events.The event also represents a great fun opportunity for family and friends, as refreshments and music will be provided. For the second year in a row, the added feature of the rail rodeo will be the display of vintage and custom automobiles and motorcycles by Metro employees who are also car buffs. In addition, McGruff the Crime Dog, Metro Transit Police Department’s Metrorail robot, and safety displays will also be available for providing information and entertainment.A few years ago, rail employees built a cardboard replica of a Metrorail train, which children can " ride" as they sit and eat their meal in the " rail car" during the competition. At the end of the event, the first through third place winners will be announced and awards presented.The first and second place rail operator and first place mechanics team will compete in the International Rail Rodeo, sponsored by the American Public Transportation Association, in San Jose, California, from June 4 to June 8, 2003.

News release issued on April 28, 2003.