The National Truck Driving Championships (NTDC) is a prestigious event steeped in history, now celebrating its 87th anniversary. Participants range from seasoned veterans to hopeful newcomers, all vying for the ultimate accolade in what is affectionately termed the “Super Bowl of Safety.”
Among the promising newcomers is Matthew Boenisch from Wisconsin. In his thirties and recognized for his approachable nature, Boenisch has garnered attention for his precise driving skills. Having outperformed a cadre of experienced competitors in his home state, he is now poised for a national stage once more, earning the distinction of Badger State grand champion in the process. His commitment to honing his driving abilities in his leisure time has undoubtedly yielded significant rewards.
Understanding the intensifying competition within the flatbed driver ranks, Boenisch is eager to channel his youthful energy as he gears up for this month’s national contest.
NTDC 2024 Details:
- Who: Champions from nine distinct categories compete for the prestigious Grand Champion title.
- What: Competitors will be evaluated through written exams, thorough pre-trip inspections, and practical driving skills.
- When: August 21-24
- Where: Indianapolis
Reflecting on his recent achievements in Wisconsin, Boenisch remarked to Transport Topics, “I knew I could win again — but to win grand champion, that was not even on my radar. So I guess I’m going to try to ride this wave all the way to Indianapolis and we’ll see where the cards fall.”
At the NTDC, participants are challenged by three primary tasks: adhering to federal regulations, undergoing a rigorous pre-trip vehicle inspection, and navigating a complex driving course. Competitors achieving top five scores across nine vehicle classifications will progress to the finals.
“We all know everybody can drive,” Boenisch stated, “but the winnings I think come from the written test and the pre-trip. So that’s what I really have been focusing on. Because if you don’t have your best run on the course, you can at least have a chance with the stuff that you do behind the scenes. So, that’s where I’m putting most of my focus right now.”
Meet Matthew Boenisch
- Name: Matthew Boenisch
- Age: 39
- Hometown: Howards Grove, Wisconsin
- Vehicle: Flatbed
- Favorite Music: Chicago (soft rock)
- Hobbies: Boating and tubing
- Favorite Food: Deep-dish pizza
- Favorite Movie: “Twister” (1996)
- Most Memorable NTDC Moment: “Walking across the stage and hearing our name called.”
- Philosophy: “Keep doing what got you where you are. Don’t change. And just prepare.”
As the NTDC approaches, Boenisch is buoyed by the full support of his family. His wife, Kayla, along with their children, Hailey (10) and Nathan (8), are eagerly looking forward to his performance. “My whole family is very excited because they got to experience nationals,” noted Boenisch. “And now I have a little pressure from them that I have to do this every year.” The sentiment is reciprocal as he mentioned, “Once I got that taste, I think you want to go back for more.”
Boenisch is determined to reach the final day of competition on August 24, aiming for a top-five finish in his category. Yet, he values the NTDC experience beyond merely winning; it’s a chance to cultivate friendships and be part of a distinctive community.
“It’s just an awesome group of safe drivers, and just the camaraderie that you get,” he expressed. “You don’t know most of these people when you come [here]… I just think it’s neat that all these people have had to be safe for at least a year just to make it to the nationals. In today’s society that’s a very big accomplishment.” He added, “Some people make it [look] easy, but just being there is a big deal.”
Notable Wisconsin Champions
- 3-Axle: Jacob Moore, Old Dominion Freight Line
- 4-Axle: Paul Smith, FedEx Freight
- 5-Axle: Matthew Myer, Old Dominion Freight Line
- Sleeper Berth: William Minor, Walmart Beaver Dam
- Step Van: Matthew Callis, Old Dominion Freight Line
- Straight Truck: Nicholas Jamtowski, Old Dominion Freight Line
- Tank Truck: Shawn Modaff, FedEx Freight
- Twins: Connor Dent, FedEx Freight
Source: Transport Topics
Image: Transport Topics
