Nicholas Farness, a professional truck driver for XPO and a resident of Ham Lake, MN, has achieved an impressive milestone. On June 1, he not only secured first place in the Twin Trailer Class but was also named the overall Grand Champion at the Minnesota Trucking Association Truck Driving Championships.
Farness and the other class champions have now qualified to compete in the prestigious National Truck Driving Championships, scheduled to take place from August 20–23 in Minneapolis.
The competition saw over 80 skilled drivers showcasing their expertise across various challenges. Participants were required to:
- Complete a written test assessing their knowledge of federal regulations.
- Perform a meticulous pre-trip inspection to identify hidden mechanical defects.
- Navigate a demanding obstacle course, designed to test their precision driving skills under pressure.
“This competition highlights the extraordinary talent and dedication of Minnesota’s professional truck drivers,” said John Hausladen, President of the Minnesota Trucking Association. “These men and women deliver for our communities every day with an unwavering commitment to safety. The Truck Driving Championships allow us to recognize and celebrate that excellence.”
2025 Class Champions
Here are the first-place winners from each competition class:
- Five-Axle: Gideon Slabaugh, UNFI
- Flatbed: Thomas Gummo, Walmart Transportation
- Four-Axle: Anthony Zvorak, FedEx Freight
- Sleeper Berth: Calvin Logan, UPS
- Step Van: Lindy Jackson, FedEx Corporation
- Straight Truck: Nathan Wick, FedEx Corporation
- Tank: Michael Hager, Wayne Transports
- Three-Axle: Matthew Simon, FedEx Freight
- Twin Trailer (and Grand Champion): Nicholas Farness, XPO
The Minnesota Trucking Association’s annual event not only celebrates exceptional skill but also underscores the commitment to safety and professionalism upheld by truck drivers across the state. Congratulations to all participants and winners!
Image Source: Minnesota Trucking Association
Source: Truckers News
