This year s contestants had driven safely for an average of 16.3 years and 1.48 million miles before they arrived in New Orleans the second week in August. The average contestant this year has been in trucking nearly 21 years and with his or her employer for nearly 11 years. Critics dismiss the championships as little more than a beauty contest.
Some carriers take it very seriously, grooming drivers to compete.
The championships are far more than the pride and polish competitions held at truck shows to see who has the snazziest-looking vehicle. Take a look at the skills and knowledge the championship drivers need to have. They must suffer no reportable accidents in the year leading up to their entrance into the state championships. They must pass a written examination that includes questions on truck safety, fire-fighting and first aid. They are interviewed to determine their attitude toward customers, regulations and the public.