championship, with some participants boasting no-accident records for over 20 years. The technicians compete in a written test and various hands-on sta- tions, while the drivers must face off for the top cumulative scores in three categories: pre-trip inspection, written examination and driving skills. Gary Mars, representing Walmart
Transportation, took home the high- est award—the 2016 Grand Champion title. Mars won the overall award, but also scored the most points in his divi- sion earning 1st place in the sleeper berth class. Mars has competed in the Arkansas Truck Driving Championship six times since 2009. He has placed five times in three different classes and qualified to represent Arkansas at the national competition twice. This is Mars’ second time to win the top honor. In 2014, he was named the Arkansas Grand Champion and placed 7th in the 5-axle class at the National Truck Driving Championships. An Arkansas Road Team captain, he has
The 2016 Arkansas Championship Team (l to r): Robin Sams, FedEx Freight; Jeff Cochran, FedEx Freight; Darren Tyler, J.B. Hunt Transport; Randy Lovell, Walmart Transportation; Gary Mars, Walmart Transportation; Larry Rhein, FedEx Freight; Tyler Brown, FedEx Ground; Eric Coursey, Solar Transport; Loren Hatfield, ABF Freight
been with Walmart Transportation for 13 years and has served the industry for 25 years with over 2.9 million safe driv- ing miles. “First and foremost, this is a safety
competition, but these drivers must be familiar with ever-changing technolo- gies, regulations and requirements gov-
Larry Rhein, FedEx Freight,
accepts the award for highest score on the pre-trip inspection from Katie Thomason, ATA
ATA President Shannon Newton recognizes Jason Wing of Walmart Transportation as the Volunteer of the Year
erning the industry and highways,” said David O’Neal, the director of safety services for the Arkansas Trucking Association. “This year’s competition was especially challenging, and the winners should be proud of this accom- plishment.”
Robin Sams, FedEx Freight, is presented his first place trophy for 3-Axle division from Sarah Sheets, ATA
Arkansas Highway Police Chief Ron Burks presents the inspection grand champion trophy to James Hamrick
ARKANSAS TRUCKING REPORT | Issue 4 2016 41
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