The Cable Car Bell Ringing Contest is July 13

The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA), which manages all transportation in the city, including the Municipal Railway (Muni), will host the 54th Cable Car Bell Ringing Contest Thursday, July 13, at noon in Union Square.

“This competition is a Muni tradition that dates back to 1955,” said Ed Reiskin SFMTA’s Director of Transportation. “Over those 60 years several grips and conductors have been crowned champion and a select few have taken the crown more than once. This year two operators attempt to add to their legacies while several others try to start a new run at the top.”

Last year’s winners in the division for cable car crew members were: First Place, Leonard Oats; Second Place, Byron Cobb; and Third Place, Trini Whittaker.

Will reigning Champion, Leonard Oats keep his title and earn his fifth win? Will Byron Cobb ring his way to a 7th title? Or will Carl Anderson, Joseph Sue, Antonio Marquardt, James Tupas or Gerald Domingo emerge as the new Cable Car Bell Ringing Champion?

Competitors will demonstrate their bell-ringing prowess on motorized cable car #52 that will park at iconic Union Square. Alongside these professional heavy hitters will be amateur bell ringers who will use their syncopated wrist actions to vie for a separate crown.

Trophies, prizes and bragging rights will be awarded to the top three contestants in each competing class. Our generous donors include: Sam’s Cable Car, Hornblower Cruises, Alcatraz Cruises, New Delhi Restaurant, Fire Engine Tour, the San Francisco Symphony, Pier 39, Chancellor Hotel, The Handlery and Westin St. Francis.  The event is supported by the Cable Car Museum and The Union Square Business Improvement District.

For more information on contestants, rules and judges please visit: https://www.sfmta.com/bellringing.