INDIANAPOLIS — At the esteemed 87th National Truck Driving Championships and National Step Van Driving Championships, Jackie Reed exhibited a humble demeanor about his chances of clinching a national title, similar to other finalists.
On August 24, maneuvering a tank truck through the complex final course of the tournament, Reed showcased his expertise and concentration. After a week filled with rigorous challenges, the FedEx Freight driver from Mississippi emerged victorious, claiming the top honor at the event often dubbed the “Super Bowl of Safety.”
In the grand setting of the JW Marriott Grand Ballroom, Reed graciously accepted the prestigious Bendix Grand Champion Award, becoming the 29th recipient of this honor since its inception in 1987. Notably, FedEx’s Roland Bolduc from Connecticut, a previous winner, did not make it to the final runoff this year.
“I’m overwhelmed,” stated Reed. “There were hints I might stand a chance, but with such intense competition, you can’t be sure until they announce your name.”
Reed, who was participating in his third national championship, also secured the win in the tanker division. He was among nearly two dozen FedEx drivers vying for national accolades.
Upon reaching the finals, Reed expressed, “It’s a major achievement. … I’m really just overwhelmed.” He found the final course to be challenging yet enjoyable.
Reed reflected on the nationals as a fulfilling journey, where he spent countless hours mastering the NTDC’s essential Facts for Drivers and committed to meticulous pre-trip inspections throughout the year. With over thirty years of driving experience, Reed attributed his competitive edge as a significant factor in his success. Previously, in 2022, he was the grand champion in the 3-axle class at the state level in Mississippi and had qualified for the nationals in the same category in 2019. He also shared with TT in a past interview about his childhood competitions with his brothers, which sharpened his competitive instincts.
In the tanker division, the runners-up were Glen Kirk from Indiana with Old Dominion Freight Line and Terry Covey from Kansas.
Matthew Montandon of Texas, representing FedEx, clinched the gold in the step van class during his first national appearance. “It’s an incredible feeling,” he remarked. “It’s hard to put into words.”
The team award this year went to drivers from Colorado, with FedEx Freight’s David Mogler, the 3-axle champion, and Paul Swan, who competed in the 4-axle division, leading the team. “It’s the best of the best,” Swan commented. “Making it here feels great.”
This trophy is awarded to the state with the highest average score. The previous year saw the Connecticut Trucking Association winning their first NTDC state award. The vehicle condition award was given to James Quarles of Walmart from South Carolina, competing in the straight truck class. Todd Gimpel of Nebraska from FedEx Freight, competing in the twin trailer division, was named Rookie of the Year.
David Wiechers from ABF Freight received the Sam Gillette Lifetime Volunteer award after 11 years of dedication to NTDC. “We’re the first ones here and the last to leave,” he explained, praising the experienced volunteer crew for their exceptional work.
American Trucking Associations President Chris Spear encouraged the competitors before the final round, emphasizing the familial aspect of the event and celebrating their achievements. “You’ve made it to the big stage — never forget that — and I look forward to seeing all of you next year,” he said.
Former ATA Chairman Kevin Burch highlighted the professionalism of the competitors, acknowledging the support of their families and the visible excitement in their eyes.
To qualify for the nationals, drivers must win a vehicle class at a state competition and maintain an accident-free record for the preceding year.
Neill Darmstadter Award
Massachusetts’s grand champion, Richard Sweeney of XPO, was honored with the Neill Darmstadter Professional Excellence Award. This accolade, one of the highest at the event, recognizes a driver’s dedication to excellence. Sweeney described the championships as a yearly reunion with fellow professionals, a chance to reconnect with friends made over the years. “It’s like coming home,” he said.
This year marked his 15th participation on the national stage. Sweeney shared earlier this year that continuous hard work and dedication are essential, not just from state to national levels, but all year round.
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