ATA Kicks Off Annual Security Showcase

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COLUMBUS, Ohio — This yr’s “Tremendous Bowl of Security,” the premier precision-driving contest for business drivers, is formally underway.

The 86th annual Nationwide Truck Driving Championships and Nationwide Step Van Driving Championships boasts 421 elite drivers from across the nation. Of that, 10 rivals are ladies, and greater than a 3rd are first-time individuals, or rookies.

Competitors on the summer season basic kicked off with a complete orientation for the individuals within the 9 car truck lessons, adopted by opening remarks from two trade leaders.

American Trucking Associations President Chris Spear congratulated the men and women competing this yr for accruing a yearlong pristine security file. Demonstrating protected driving is a long-standing requisite for the event. Spear additionally emphasised rivals’ dedication to making sure the nation’s items are transported safely and effectively alongside freight provide chains.

Through the COVID-19 pandemic, business drivers’ contributions have been touted by state and federal officers, in addition to trade leaders.

“You’re not the glue of this financial system. You’re not solely the spine of this financial system. You’re the heartbeat of this nation,” Spear instructed the attendees Aug. 16, earlier than reminding them they’re “a number of the most hardworking, patriotic [group] I’ve ever had the privilege to work with.”

Robin Hutcheson, administrator of the Federal Motor Service Security Administration, additionally thanked the elite drivers for his or her dedication to security and affinity for the craft. She shared encouragement expressed by Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who she mentioned was impressed by their dedication to professionalism and camaraderie. FMCSA is tasked with regulating the trucking and motor coach industries.

“I’m right here as a result of I care deeply concerning the driving career and what you contribute to America,” she instructed the drivers throughout their orientation. “Thanks a lot from FMCSA, from [U.S. Department of Transportation], the [Biden] administration.”

Shortly after the keynote remarks from ATA and FMCSA, drivers proceeded to examine the sector of competitors the place they examined tools and the course’s obstacles.

“I had fun. The course — I feel it’s fairly simple, however you by no means know. I’d mess it up,” remarked Josue Rivera from Kansas with Outdated Dominion Freight Line, competing within the 3-axle class. Rivera, a rookie to the occasion, then exclaimed: “I really feel like a champ!”

Quickly after inspecting the sector, rivals proceeded with the competition’s first self-discipline consisting of a written examination of trade guidelines and laws. The check is predicated on ATA’s “Info for Drivers” guidebook.

Over the following two days, rivals are scheduled to maneuver their respective autos (i.e., straight truck, 3-axle, 4-axle, 5-axle, twins, flatbed, tanker, sleeper and step van) by an intricate driving course, in addition to take part in a pre-trip car inspection.

NTDC concludes its festivities Aug. 19 with an awards gala.

FedEx Freight’s Rodney Myers, the chairman of the occasion’s organizing committee, highlighted the contributions of volunteers who assist run the event: “It takes a military to run this factor. There’s over 150 volunteers. In the event you get a possibility this week, say ‘thanks’ to them.”

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