Charles White Photo: ATA

Charles White Photo: ATA

American Trucking Associations named Charles White, a driver for Walmart Transportation based out of Nineveh, Ind., as the Bendix Grand Champion of the 2016 National Truck Driving Championships. This is the second consecutive year that a Walmart driver has won the award. 

To receive the title of Bendix Grand Champion, White had to demonstrate driving skills and knowledge of transportation and truck safety that surpassed the 430 other truckers who competed in the competition.  White also took home the 3-axle class title. The National Truck Driving Championships took place in Indianapolis.

“After an impressive showing throughout the week, Charles White emerged as the most skilled and knowledgeable truck driver in the country,” said Chris Spear, ATA president and CEO. “On behalf of the ATA and the trucking community, I want to congratulate Charles and thank the entire field of competitors for participating in these championships.”

ATA also recognized Richard Merich as the 2016 Rookie of the Year, taking home the honor after a strong performance in the flatbed division. The team of drivers from South Carolina produced the best collective score with an average of 278.13.

Champions of each of the nine classes and the top state delegation were also announced. Joining Charles White on the list of national champions are:

3-Axle: Charles White, Nineveh, Indiana, Walmart Transportation

4-Axle: Ronald Metternick, Lowell, Michigan, FedEx Freight

5-Axle: Toby Kort, Aurora, Nebraska, FedEx Freight

Flatbed: Jay Love, Davis, South Dakota, FedEx Freight

Sleeper Berth: Larry Breen, Bushnell, Florida, Walmart Transportation

Straight Truck: Charles Randolph, Belle, West Virginia, PITT OHIO

Tank Truck: Jeffrey Langenhahn, Plover, Wisconsin, XPO Logistics

Twins: Chris Poynor, Richland, Washington, XPO Logistics

Step Van: Frank Woods, Shawsville, Virginia, FedEx Express

Rookie of the Year: Richard Merich, Lochbuie, Colorado, FedEx Freight

Team Champions: South Carolina

Vehicle Condition: William Pudney, Minneapolis, Minnesota, FedEx Freight

Neill Darmstadter Professional Excellence: Charles Woodland, Surprise, Arizona, FedEx Freight

Lifetime Volunteer Award: Chris Ignowski, CDS, FedEx Ground

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