Syracuse, NY — The annual Trucking Association of New York’s Truck Driving Championships and Step Van Competition wrapped up in Syracuse with FedEx Freight’s John Jadrossich taking the grand championship for the second year in a row. The win followed a series of tight battles across the 3‑axle, 4‑axle, 5‑axle, and step‑van classes, where Jadrossich’s precision and consistency outpaced every competitor.
The event, held on September 8, drew over 200 trucks from carriers across the state. It serves as a proving ground for drivers who want to demonstrate their skills in handling long‑haul rigs, flatbeds, and specialty equipment. For many, success in the championships opens doors to higher‑paying assignments and recognition within the industry.
FedEx Freight took home the team trophy, while individual awards highlighted a range of talents. The written exam trophy went to James Kohr of FedEx Express, and the pre‑trip inspection award was claimed by Mark McLean, also with FedEx Freight. Rookie of the year was Gogal Daulton, another FedEx Freight driver. The Ray Dagostino Award honored Michael Mastroianni of the retired Golub Corporation. Class winners included Step Van champion Patrick Collins of FedEx Express, 3‑axle champion John Jadrossich, 4‑axle winner Marty McMahon of RIST Transport, Ltd, 5‑axle champion Randy Merle of FedEx Freight, Flatbed winner Randy Swart of FedEx Express, Tanker champion Matthew Benson of Dairy Farmers of America NE Logistics, Inc., Twin Trailer winner Mark McLean, Sleeper Berth champion David Cady of Walmart Supply Chain, and Straight Truck champion James Kohr of FedEx Express.
What This Means for Drivers
For CDL‑A holders and owner‑operators, the championships underscore the importance of mastering vehicle handling and safety checks. Drivers who finish in the top ranks may receive preferential treatment when carriers assign high‑visibility routes or premium loads. Truck driver jobs that demand advanced maneuvering skills often favor those with proven competition records, giving winners a tangible advantage in the job market.
Owner‑operators can leverage the prestige of a championship title to negotiate better freight rates or secure long‑term contracts. The recognition also signals compliance with FMCSA regulations, as the event emphasizes pre‑trip inspections and written knowledge tests that mirror federal safety standards.
OTR truck drivers looking to climb the career ladder will find that a championship win can accelerate promotion to lead driver or supervisor roles. It also provides a platform for networking with fleet managers and carrier executives who attend the event.
Industry Reaction
Carriers across New York praised the competition for highlighting the professionalism of the state’s trucking workforce. FedEx Freight’s own management noted that the success of its drivers reflects the company’s investment in training and safety programs. Industry groups see the championships as a benchmark for driver excellence, encouraging other carriers to adopt similar competitive events to retain top talent.
Key Points
- John Jadrossich wins grand championship for second consecutive year.
- FedEx Freight dominates team and individual awards.
- Class winners span 3‑axle, 4‑axle, 5‑axle, flatbed, tanker, twin trailer, sleeper berth, and straight truck categories.
- Top performers will represent New York at the national competition in Columbus, Ohio, August 16‑19.
Looking for a better trucking job? US Trucker's free job‑matching service connects CDL‑A drivers, OTR drivers, regional drivers, and owner‑operators with 500+ top US carriers. Leave your details in the form on this page and a recruiter will call you within one business day. Trucking companies are hiring now.
Photo by Shuaizhi Tian on Pexels