Professional drivers from across the state gathered in Antioch earlier this month for the 2026 Tennessee Truck Driving Championships, where James Sowder of FedEx Freight earned the event’s overall grand champion title.
Sowder also finished first in the flatbed division during the two-day competition held May 1 and 2 at the FedEx Freight facility in Tennessee.
Hosted by the Tennessee Trucking Association, the annual championships test drivers on written exams, pre-trip inspections, and driving skills designed around precision, safety, and vehicle control.
Several additional honors were handed out during the event, recognizing both competitors and volunteers involved with the championships.
Donnie Shelby of XPO Logistics received the rookie award, while The Martin-Brower Company earned the team trophy award.
The Inspector Challenge award went to Dallas Lange. Ed Hauhn of Martin-Brower received Driver of the Year honors, while Jack Hawkins of Thompson Machinery was recognized for volunteer contributions during the event.
Division winners included drivers representing multiple carriers and equipment classes across the competition field.
Division Winners from the 2026 Tennessee Championships
| Division | Winner | Company |
| Step Van | Roy Daniels | FedEx Corporation |
| Straight Truck | Samuel Bryant | FedEx Freight |
| 3 Axle | Brian Turner | Old Dominion |
| 4 Axle | Brandon Gilpatrick | FedEx Freight |
| 5 Axle | William Shepherd | Tranco Logistics |
| Tank | Ray Shelton | FedEx Freight |
| Twin Trailers | Steve Marlow | ABF Freight |
| Sleeper | Jeff Barton | FedEx Freight |
| Flatbed | James Sowder | FedEx Freight |
“We are proud of all of this year’s professional drivers who showcased their skills this past weekend,” the association said in a social media post. “Thank you, participants, volunteers, and sponsors, for another great event!”
Drivers advancing from state competitions will continue to the National Truck Driving & Step Van Driving Championships scheduled for Aug. 11 through 14 in Pittsburgh.
State truck driving championships remain one of the industry’s longest-running ways to recognize professional drivers for safety knowledge, vehicle handling skills, and consistency behind the wheel.
The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
Source: Truckers News
Image Source: Tennessee Trucking Association
