Indianapolis, Ind. — Jackie Reed, a professional tank truck driver for FedEx Freight representing Mississippi, captured the 2024 Grand Champion title at the 87th National Truck Driving Championships held at the JW Marriott Grand Ballroom. Earning the prestigious Bendix Grand Champion Award on August 24, Reed triumphed over a massive field of elite professional drivers after surviving a grueling multi-day test that included written examinations, precise pre-trip vehicle inspections, and a notoriously difficult obstacle course.
Known across the profession as the Super Bowl of Safety, the annual tournament demands absolute precision from every competing CDL-A driver. To reach the national stage, participants must first claim a class title at their respective state level and maintain an immaculate, accident-free safety record over the preceding twelve months. Reed, boasting over three decades of professional driving experience, navigated the intricate final course with unmatched accuracy to secure his victory in the tanker class, marking his third appearance at the national competition.
The event celebrated excellence across multiple vehicle divisions, highlighting the dedication required of modern OTR truck drivers and fleet operators. Indiana driver Glen Kirk of Old Dominion Freight Line and Kansas representative Terry Covey finished as runners-up in the tanker division. Meanwhile, Matthew Montandon of FedEx Freight secured the step van title during his first national appearance, and Todd Gimpel of Nebraska earned Rookie of the Year honors in the twin trailer division. Walmart professional James Quarles took home the vehicle condition award for his performance in the straight truck class.
What This Means for Drivers
For professional truck drivers and owner-operators, events like the NTDC highlight the apex of skill, safety, and operational discipline in commercial motor vehicle operation. Mastering pre-trip inspections and tight-course maneuvers translates directly to safer daily operations on crowded interstate highways and local distribution routes. As trucking companies hiring top-tier talent demand rigorous safety standards, achievements at this level validate the year-round commitment required to maintain a spotless driving record.
Industry Reaction
American Trucking Associations President Chris Spear addressed the assembled competitors prior to the final round, praising their unwavering commitment to safety and professionalism. Former ATA Chairman Kevin Burch echoed those sentiments, emphasizing that these drivers represent the backbone of the American supply chain by delivering goods on schedule and without incident. Volunteers and veteran competitors, including Neill Darmstadter Professional Excellence Award winner Richard Sweeney of XPO, reminded attendees that highway safety is a continuous, year-round endeavor rather than a seasonal pursuit.
Key Points
- Jackie Reed of FedEx Freight was named the 2024 NTDC Grand Champion on August 24 in Indianapolis.
- The rigorous competition tests drivers through written exams, pre-trip inspections, and technical driving courses.
- Competitors must win a state-level championship and maintain an accident-free record to qualify for nationals.
- Nebraska's Todd Gimpel earned Rookie of the Year, and James Quarles of Walmart claimed the vehicle condition award.
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