SPOKANE, Wash. — Ivan Martinez of Starline Luxury Coaches in Seattle won the Northwest Motorcoach Association’s 26th annual drivers competition, earning an opportunity to compete at UMA Motorcoach EXPO 2027 in San Antonio.
Paul Rohrbaugh, also of Starline Luxury Coaches, finished second, followed by Robin Gibeau of Holiday Motorcoach in Eugene, Oregon.
The competition, known as the ROADEO, was held in Spokane as part of the association’s annual operators conference and vendor showcase. Professional motorcoach drivers demonstrated their driving skills during the event.
“The ROADEO highlights the skill, professionalism, and dedication that motorcoach drivers bring to our industry,” said Scott Michael, president and CEO of the United Motorcoach Association.
Martinez will advance to UMA’s annual International Drivers Competition during EXPO, scheduled for Jan. 17-20.
Judges from the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission helped oversee the competition.
The association represents motorcoach operators in Idaho, Oregon, Washington and neighboring states. Founded in 1998, it provides industry advocacy, legislative updates, professional development and training.
“Congratulations to Ivan Martinez, Paul Rohrbaugh, and Robin Gibeau, and sincere thanks to the volunteers and Washington State UTC judges who helped make the competition possible,” Michael said. “We look forward to welcoming Ivan to the UMA EXPO 2027 International Drivers Competition in San Antonio.”
