Fargo, N.D. — David Comings, a FedEx Freight driver, walked away with both the five‑axle class win and the grand champion award at the North Dakota Motor Carriers Association’s annual trucking contest on September 9, 2026.

The ND Motor Carriers Association hosts the event each year to pit the region’s best CDL‑A drivers against one another in a series of practical challenges. Competitors must demonstrate precision backing, safe coupling, and fuel‑efficient driving, skills that directly affect a carrier’s bottom line. Winning the contest signals a driver’s mastery of the rig and road, a badge of honor that can open doors to better routes and higher pay.

Comings outperformed a field of seasoned professionals, all vying for the coveted five‑axle class title. His performance earned him the overall grand champion crown, a distinction reserved for the driver who excels across every test. FedEx Freight highlighted the achievement on its internal channels, noting that the win reflects the company’s emphasis on driver training and safety. The contest drew participants from multiple carriers, reinforcing the collaborative spirit among North Dakota’s trucking community.

What This Means for Drivers

For CDL‑A drivers, a grand champion title translates into tangible career leverage. Owners and fleet managers often use contest results when assigning premium OTR truck driver routes, meaning Comings could see more lucrative hauls. Owner‑operators watch the outcome closely; a win showcases the level of skill required to run a profitable operation without a corporate safety net. The recognition also raises the profile of FedEx Freight within the region, potentially prompting other carriers to scout talent from the winning roster.

Industry Reaction

While the North Dakota Motor Carriers Association did not issue a formal statement, industry observers see the contest as a barometer for driver competency amid tightening FMCSA regulations. Carrier groups argue that hands‑on competitions reinforce best practices that regulators now codify, such as safe backing and proper load securement. The broader trucking community welcomes the event as a morale booster, especially as trucking companies hiring aggressively seek drivers who can meet both performance and compliance standards.

Key Points

• David Comings of FedEx Freight won the five‑axle class and grand champion titles.
• The contest was organized by the North Dakota Motor Carriers Association.
• The event took place on September 9, 2026, in Fargo, North Dakota.
• Winning drivers gain leverage for better truck driver jobs and premium OTR assignments.

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