The pandemic has reminded the country what a hero looks like, and truck drivers earned that designation for their selfless work to keep the shelves stocked and vital supplies flowing during the coronavirus surge. Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC is honored to celebrate these drivers by sponsoring the Grand Champion Award at the American Trucking Associations (ATA) 2021 National Battle of the States: Virtual Truck Driving Championships. This will mark Bendix’s 10th time sponsoring the top award of the competition, highlighting the company’s commitment to highway safety, and honoring the dedicated men and women whose skills help create safer roads.
The event will begin on July 31 with state-level trivia contests based on Facts for Drivers, federal and state laws, and state trucking history and culture. These contests will lead into the national competition that takes place on Aug. 14 with the National Battle of the States.
“While the 2021 format may be virtual, the ATA Truck Driving Championships continue as the premier showcase for honoring America’s safe commercial vehicle drivers,” said Fred Andersky, director – demos, sales, and service training at Bendix. “We are proud to return for our 10th year as the Grand Champion sponsor and to support the competition.”
“We are thrilled that Bendix is sponsoring our Super Bowl of Safety for the 10th straight year,” said Chris Spear, ATA president and CEO. “NTDC is our premier driver safety event and it would not be possible without Bendix’s support. While we cannot wait to hold this event in person next year, we appreciate Bendix supporting this virtual event.”
To qualify for state and national competitions, drivers must remain accident-free – regardless of fault – and have been continuously employed by the same motor carrier since Aug. 23, 2020. Drivers may only compete in one state competition and may choose based on where their CDL was issued, where they live, or where the company they drive for is based. For more information on the 2021 competition, visit: https://events.atabusinesssolutions.com/ntdc/.
“Drivers, driver training, and the safe operation of vehicles remain vitally important,” said Andersky, who also holds a Class A CDL. “The Truck Driving Championships shine a light on the tremendous skill and value that professional drivers bring. At every level, these inspiring men and women deserve our recognition and thanks.”
The 2022 National Truck Driving Championships are expected to be in person in Indianapolis, Indiana. The last ATA in-person competition was held in 2019, with Middletown, Ohio-based professional driver Scott Woodrome earning his second consecutive Grand Champion trophy.
