For his second trip to the National Truck Driving Championships, Ken
Epley had one goal. "My goal was to beat my 1997 score, which was
18th place. And I was hoping for the top ten."
He achieved his goal and then some.
Roadway Express driver Ken Epley was named National Champion in
the Straight Truck Class at the 2000 ATA National Truck Driving
Championships. Ken is a Driver/Sales Representative at Roadway's
Chicago, Illinois service center.
He was joined in the finalist circle by two other Roadway drivers.
Mark Cotter, a combination driver from Madison, Wisconsin placed
third in the 3-axle class and Regnald Ansbach, a linehaul driver from
Sioux Falls, South Dakota placed fourth in the twin trailers class.
Held on August 9 - 12 in New Orleans, the National Truck Driving
Championships are an opportunity for professional truck drivers to
demonstrate their skills. The competition includes a driving course, a written examination, a personal interview, and a pre-trip inspection.
Out of the estimated 350 participants this year, 36 were from
Roadway Express. Each driver had to drive safely for an entire year
and place first in the competition held in their state, among other
qualifications. Additionally, drivers devote personal time to studying for the examination, fine-tuning their daily pre-trip inspection routines, and setting up mock courses at their facilities. These are drivers who are devoted to safety and view this competition as a way to further their skills and professionalism.
John Bronneck, Vice President of Operations, attended the event and viewed the competition from the stands. "I felt a tremendous sense of pride. These drivers share Roadway's vision to become the safest transportation company in North America. To observe and be a part of their commitment, dedication, and personal sacrifices is just a great experience."
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