When the votes were counted, one truck stood out from the crowd.

Alfalfa Cruiser Takes People’s Choice

Jason Flores earned the People’s Choice award with his truck known as “Alfalfa Cruiser,” a 2018 Peterbilt 389 paired with 2018 XL double flatbeds. The award is decided by fellow participants and attendees, making it one of the most talked-about wins of the show.

The combination of detail, presentation, and overall presence helped it rise above a packed field of competitors.

Big Rig Build Off Draws Top Builders

Another highlight of the event was the Big Rig Build Off, where top builders go head-to-head under time pressure to create a standout show truck.

This year’s title went to Randy Menkel of Never Satisfied Builds and J and L Contracting with a 1985 Peterbilt 359. The competition also featured returning competitor Luke Rethwisch of Rethwisch Transport and James Stegall of Stegall’s Truck Shop.

Best of Show Standouts

Several trucks across limited mileage categories made a strong impression:

Limited Mileage Bobtail with Miles

• Best of Show: Darryl Beger with “Mint Condition,” a 2019 Peterbilt 389
• Second: Bryant Mann with “Ribbon Runner,” a 1998 Peterbilt 379
• Third: Josh and Jayson Loyer with “Tax Exempt,” a 1989 Mack Superliner

Limited Mileage Bobtail with No Miles

• Best of Show: CJ Nairn with a 2025 Kenworth W900L
• Second: Jared Nelson with “Curb Appeal,” a 2022 Peterbilt 389
• Third: Eddie Homfeld with “Crown Jewel,” a 2024 Peterbilt 389

Limited Mileage Combo

• Best of Show: Chad and Brad Sand with “Asphalt Outlaw,” a 2016 Peterbilt 389 and 2018 Mac trailer
• Second: Jason Flores with “Alfalfa Cruiser,” a 2018 Peterbilt 389 and 2018 XL double flatbeds
• Third: Jerry Mies with “Mooving Violation,” a 2007 Peterbilt 379 and 2022 Walker

Working Trucks That Still Shine

The working truck categories continue to prove that daily-use equipment can compete at a high level.

Working Truck Bobtail

• Best of Show: Phillip Couch with “New Testament,” a 1999 Freightliner Classic XL
• Second: Austin Badders with “Fine Wine,” a 1983 Peterbilt 359
• Third: Ashton Kaley with a 1995 Kenworth W900

Working Truck Combo

• Best of Show: Blake Ray with a 2020 Peterbilt 389 and 2026 Mac trailer
• Second: Tucker Jacob with a 2024 Peterbilt 389 and a 2024 Eby
• Third: John Treadway with “Teal Appeal,” a 1998 Peterbilt 379 and 2017 Great Dane

Antique Iron Still Turns Heads

Classic trucks had a strong showing across multiple categories, highlighting the continued appreciation for older equipment kept in top condition.

Antique Original Bobtail

• First: Ethan Tipton with “Wildcard,” a 1972 Brockway 457
• Second: Thomas Menges with “Sweet, Smooth & Sassy,” a 1986 Mack Superliner
• Third: Earl Chapman with “Pearl,” a 1966 Peterbilt 352

Antique Custom Bobtail

• First: Jaden Warner with a 1988 Peterbilt 362
• Second: Brian Sweet with a 1979 Kenworth W900A
• Third: Casey Field with “Curley,” a 1969 Peterbilt 359

Additional Category Winners

Several other categories highlighted everything from paint and lighting to interiors and new equipment:

• New Truck: Douglas Prier with a 2026 Kenworth W900
• Wrecker: Jacob Ripley with “Wreckless Behavior,” a 2025 Kenworth W900B
• Troy “The Legend” Huddleston Award: Tyler LaMontagne with “Nelly Bell,” a 1983 Peterbilt 359
• Rockwood Running Late Award: Paul Brookhart with “Pendleton,” a 2001 Peterbilt 379
• Bette Garber Memorial Award: Austin Badders with “Sexual Chocolate,” a 1983 Peterbilt 359
• Bennett Louisville Invite Winner: Tucker Jacob with a 2024 Peterbilt 389 and 2024 Eby

What This Year’s Show Delivered

From fully restored classics to modern working trucks built for both function and presentation, this year’s PKY Championship showed how much pride goes into every detail. Whether it’s chrome, paint, fabrication, or upkeep, the level of effort behind each entry was on full display.

With nearly 200 trucks competing, earning a spot at the top in any category says a lot about the build and the people behind it.

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The PKY Truck Beauty Championship will take place March 26 through March 28 at the Kentucky Expo Center as part of the Mid-America Trucking Show. The 2026 event marks the 34th time the championship has been held alongside MATS and is expected to feature as many as 175 competing trucks.

Registration for competitors is open through February 15, or until the maximum number of entries is reached.

A kickoff to the custom truck season

Often viewed as the unofficial start of the custom show-truck calendar, the PKY Championship draws a wide range of participants. From heavily customized owner-operator rigs to fleet showpieces and professional builds, the event highlights both craftsmanship and creativity across the heavy-duty truck segment.

“The PKY Truck Beauty Championship is more than a competition — it’s an industry spectacle that brings together builders, owners, drivers, and fans to showcase the best in truck design and craftsmanship,” said Toby Young, MATS President. “We’re excited to welcome the custom truck enthusiast community back to Louisville in 2026 and raise the bar even higher.”

Events tied to the PKY Championship

Beyond the judged competition itself, the PKY schedule includes several high-profile events that give attendees multiple ways to see the trucks up close and in motion.

Scheduled PKY events include:

• PKY Lights Show
  Thursday, March 26, after dark through 9:30 p.m., Lot N
  A nighttime showcase where competing trucks illuminate the showgrounds, emphasizing custom lighting, finishes, and design details.
• PKY Parade Presented by Big Rig Videos
  Saturday, March 28, 7:15 to 8:15 p.m., parking lot outside the Circle of Champions
  A moving display of featured and competing trucks that allows spectators to view each rig from all angles.
• PKY Awards Ceremony
  Saturday, March 28, 10 a.m.
  Recognition of winners across multiple categories, including Best of Show and People’s Choice.
• Big Rig Build-Off
  A head-to-head competition featuring elite custom builders, highlighting fabrication, innovation, and attention to detail.

Why the event matters to the industry

For drivers, the PKY Truck Beauty Championship is more than a show. It reflects the pride many take in their equipment and the role customization plays in personal branding, fleet identity, and craftsmanship within trucking culture.

For manufacturers, builders, and suppliers, the event offers a live look at trends in lighting, paint, interior work, fabrication, and technology that often influence future builds across the industry.

As the championship returns for its 34th year, organizers expect another strong turnout from both competitors and spectators, reinforcing the event’s place as a staple of the Mid-America Trucking Show.

Source: Overdrive

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The MATS Pro Talks Education Series is back, offering a packed schedule of sessions designed to help drivers and trucking professionals stay ahead in the industry. From business strategies to industry insights, these sessions provide valuable knowledge for anyone looking to sharpen their skills.

For those who love custom trucks, the PKY Truck Beauty Championship will showcase some of the most impressive rigs on the road. Competing trucks will be on display in Lot N, giving attendees a chance to see some of the best builds in the business up close. The MATS Big Rig Build-Off also returns, featuring five custom truck builders going head-to-head.

Drivers bringing their rigs to MATS can take advantage of the Truck Parking Community at 1032 Phillips Lane, right across from the main entrance. A free shuttle runs between the lot and the Expo Center during show hours. The lot isn’t just for parking—it’s a gathering spot with free coffee and espresso from Mudflap on Thursday and Friday (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) and Saturday (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.). Before Friday night’s concert with Colt Ford and Tony Justice, Fistful of Tacos will be serving free tacos and nachos to the first 400 guests from 5:30-7 p.m.

Many exhibitors will also have special events, giveaways, and new products on display. Shell Rotella’s booth will feature an interactive experience with trucking personalities like the Boston Trucker, Clarissa Rankin, and Tarik Al-Amin II. Attendees can record a message in the Shell Rotella Recording Studio to thank a trucker or share their own story, with donations going to the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund.

The St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund will also hold a silent auction and 50/50 raffle at the MATS Opening Reception on Thursday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. A $1 donation at the SCF booth will let attendees spin the wheel for a chance to win prizes.

Other highlights include:

• Heatso offering a limited-time 10% discount on its Fresco 9000 MaXX electric auxiliary air-conditioning unit.
• Mother Trucker Yoga is introducing new wellness programs for CDL schools and fleets, alongside live demos and wellness products.
• Right Weigh showcasing its latest Bluetooth-enabled onboard load scales for better load management.
• RealTruck RoadWorks debuting new HALO GLOW LEDs and accessories for the Peterbilt 589.

MATS is always a great place to connect with fellow truckers, industry experts, and exhibitors. TDUSA President Lori Furnell will also be in attendance. Be sure to say hi if you run into her!

Source: Overdrive

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The 2025 Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) is gearing up for an exciting showdown, as five of the most skilled and creative custom truck builders compete for a massive $25,000 cash prize in the prestigious Big Rig Build-Off. Returning after another successful year, the event will feature jaw-dropping craftsmanship and innovative designs, all vying to impress the judges and attendees alike.

Last year, Davis Brothers Designs stole the show with their stunning 2024 Peterbilt 389, capturing the top honor in the 2024 competition. Brothers Brian and Tom Davis will return this year in an effort to defend their title with a brand-new custom creation.

The Big Rig Build-Off is a highlight of the PKY Truck Beauty Championship, which takes place during MATS from March 27-29 in Louisville, Kentucky. Builders will be judged on their creativity, attention to detail, and the overall quality of their designs.

Meet the Five Featured Builders

1. Luke Rethwisch, Rethwisch Transport

Luke Rethwisch might be one of the youngest builders in this year’s competition, but he’s already making waves. Growing up in a trucking family, Luke started honing his craft at the age of six, polishing and competing alongside his parents, Bill and Sayra, who launched Rethwisch Transport in 2009. His entry for the Build-Off is set to be his personal work truck, which he’ll drive when he turns 18.

2. Randy Manning, Randy M Manning LLC

A MATS regular with over 25 years of experience, Randy Manning has made a name for himself in both trucking and custom truck building. Based in Winchester, Virginia, Randy’s passion for trucks began in childhood, following in the footsteps of his father, who started trucking in the 1970s. Specializing in transforming semi-trucks into dump trucks and revitalizing old dump trucks with paint jobs, chrome, and modern lights, Randy’s builds are a testament to his innovative spirit.

3. Billy Warner Jr. and Cody Warner, William R. Warner Jr. Trucking

Operating from Circleville, West Virginia, William R. Warner Jr. Trucking is synonymous with trucking excellence across industries. Founder Bill Warner built his business from the ground up, starting with a single dump truck he purchased at 18. Over the course of three decades, his fleet has expanded to include more than 10 working trucks and several stunning show trucks. With a particular love for classic models, the Warners have previously showcased a 1981 and a 1987 Peterbilt 359 at national truck events. Billy Warner Jr. and Cody Warner are continuing that tradition in the 2025 Build-Off.

4. Brian and Thomas Davis, Davis Brothers Designs

The defending champions are back! Davis Brothers Designs, a full-service custom truck operation headquartered in Owensville, Indiana, is owned by Brian and Tom Davis. Initially grain farmers, the brothers founded RK Transport Inc., a trucking company serving the agricultural industry. Their trucks, often characterized by custom paint, chrome details, standout lighting, and massive audio systems, wowed last year’s judges. The Davises hope to replicate their 2024 glory this year.

5. Jordan Henderson, JSH Trucking

JSH Trucking, founded in the 1990s by Johnny Henderson, began as a one-man operation with a single cabover truck. Today, the business has grown to include multiple locations and a diverse team of employees. Expanding into new ventures, JSH now also runs a 24/7 towing and repair service. Jordan Henderson, Johnny’s son, continues his father’s legacy by building award-winning custom trucks. His skill and dedication will undoubtedly make him a strong contender in this year’s competition.

A Celebration of Talent and Creativity

The 2025 Big Rig Build-Off promises to be a thrilling event, showcasing the incredible craftsmanship and ingenuity of some of the best custom truck builders in the industry. With $25,000 on the line and reputations at stake, the competition will undoubtedly push these builders to produce their most impressive work yet.

Source: Overdrive

Image: Overdrive

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