In a remarkable display of skill and creativity, the first ever Tram Driver World Championship took place in Vienna, Austria, where tram drivers showcased their talents in a series of unusual challenges.
Drivers from various cities around the globe, including Hong Kong, Rio de Janeiro, and San Diego, converged in Vienna to demonstrate their tram-operating prowess before an enthusiastic crowd. This vibrant event marked a milestone, celebrating 160 years since the introduction of trams to Vienna.
Competitors tackled various entertaining tasks, mixing traditional tram operation with quirky challenges such as bowling and curling using their vehicles. The Austrian team secured first place, outperforming reigning European champions from Budapest who ultimately finished fourth.
Over 25 teams competed on a specially designed 250-meter course, assessed on their ability to handle their trams in diverse scenarios. One test required drivers to transport a bowl of water without spilling any liquid during braking, while tram curling involved accurately halting a bicycle trolley at a designated spot. Tram bowling also captivated spectators as competitors aimed to knock down inflatable pins with a giant ball.
Ultimately, Austria triumphed, while teams from Poland and Norway followed closely behind in second and third places. The Austrian contestant, Florijan Isaku, expressed immense pride in his victory on home turf, referring to his team's transit company, Wiener Linien, as 'a family'. On the other hand, Hungary's Krisztina Schneider shared a disappointing experience, admitting that speed alone could not secure success in the curling challenge.
Looking ahead, the next European championships are set to take place in Warsaw, Poland, bringing excitement to tram enthusiasts across Europe.
