The West Virginia Trucking Association’s Annual Truck Driving Championship once again showcased the extraordinary talent and dedication of the state’s trucking professionals. Held recently, this celebrated event brought together top-tier drivers who excelled in various categories, highlighting their exceptional skills behind the wheel.
A Remarkable Victory for Old Dominion Freight Lines
Mike Markham, from Belpre, Ohio, and representing Old Dominion Freight Lines, emerged as the Grand Champion of this year’s competition. His outstanding performance also earned him a first-place victory in the Tank Truck category, cementing his reputation as one of the best in the field. Notably, this is not Markham’s first time in the spotlight; he previously won the Grand Champion title in 2023, showcasing consistent excellence.
Honoring the Best in the Industry
This year’s event also paid tribute to other remarkable individuals whose commitment to safety and professionalism continues to elevate the trucking industry.
- Nick Backes, a resident of Hurricane, West Virginia, and a driver for Pitt Ohio, was honored with the prestigious title of West Virginia Professional Driver of the Year.
- Jeremy Gray, another Old Dominion Freight Lines driver based in Williamstown, West Virginia, received the West Virginia Public Service Commission Driver of the Year Award.
- Mike Roberts, from Eleanor, West Virginia, and a dedicated XPO driver, claimed the Pre-Trip Inspection Award, showcasing his attention to detail.
- The Rookie of the Year title was awarded to David Roberts, representing Walmart Transportation and hailing from St. Albans, West Virginia.
Team Effort Shines
Beyond individual accolades, teamwork was celebrated as Pitt Ohio earned the Team Champion Award for their collective efforts and standout performance during the competition.
Highlights of Category Wins
Here’s a closer look at all the category champions who stood out with their extraordinary abilities in their respective fields:
- Straight Truck – Alexander Atkins, St. Albans, West Virginia, Pitt Ohio
- 3-Axle Tractor Semi-Trailer – Mike Roberts, Eleanor, West Virginia, XPO
- 4-Axle Tractor Semi-Trailer – Cole Miltenberger, Ridgeley, West Virginia, Pitt Ohio
- 5-Axle Van – Steve Looney, St. Albans, West Virginia, ABF Freight
- Tank Truck – Mike Markham, Belpre, Ohio, Old Dominion Freight Lines
- Flatbed – Justin Moody, Beckley, West Virginia, Walmart Transportation
- Twin Trailers – Vince May, Sitka, Kentucky, FedEx Freight
- Sleeper Berth – David Roberts, St. Albans, West Virginia, Walmart Transportation
- Step Van – Brandon Wuletich, Caldwell, Ohio, FedEx Freight
Eyes on the National Stage
Each first-place champion from the event will go on to represent West Virginia at the American Trucking Association’s National Truck Driving Championship in Minneapolis. Scheduled for August 20–23, the national competition provides an even larger platform for these skilled drivers to showcase their expertise and bring pride to their teams and communities.
Image Source: WVT
Source: Truckers News
