YRC Worldwide operating companies will have 69 professional drivers competing at the 2008 National Truck Driving Championships August 19-23 in Houston.


To qualify for the national championships, each driver placed first in his respective class at state competition. The drivers will compete against nearly 400 others for national titles in eight different classes of vehicles for the National Grand Champion title.

Both the state and national contests include challenging driving skills and maneuvering tests, pre-trip inspections, and a written examination covering vehicle operation and federal safety regulations. To participate in state competitions, drivers must be accident-free for one year.

"We congratulate all of our professional drivers for their dedication and commitment to safety," said Mike Smid, president and CEO of YRC North American Transportation. "Through their safety performance, each driver contributes to the well-being of their fellow motorists and represents the values of our family of companies. We are proud to have this team represent our brands, and wish them all the best at the national championships."

In 2007, Roadway professional driver Alphonso Lewis captured the title of National Grand Champion at the 70th Annual National Truck Driving Championships, which is sponsored by the American Trucking Associations.