Reno UPS Driver Takes Top Honors at National Truck Driving Championships

NEVADA – James Gragg Wilson, a skilled UPS driver from the Reno area, has emerged as the grand champion of the 2023 National Truck Driving Championships, a prestigious competition held in Columbus, Ohio. This event, often referred to as the “Super Bowl of Safety,” traces its origins back to 1937 and attracted over 400 participants this year, with Wilson securing the coveted top spot.

ATA President and CEO Chris Spear praised Wilson’s remarkable performance, stating, “Gragg delivered a flawless performance to take home our industry’s top prize and earn the title of Grand Champion. This accomplishment epitomizes his entire career, with 37 years and more than 2.5 million miles of accident-free driving.”

Competing in the tank truck class, Wilson excelled and secured the grand champion title among top drivers from various states who competed in nine distinct vehicle categories. The championship not only highlights individual driving skills but also underscores the commitment to safety demonstrated by professional drivers in the industry.

Spear commended all participants, acknowledging them as outstanding representatives of the trucking sector who set high standards for highway safety. He emphasized their dedication and contribution to promoting safe practices on the road.

Wilson’s achievements extend beyond this year’s victory. He has achieved triumph in the Nevada State Championship on 13 occasions across six categories. As a five-time State of Nevada Grand Champion, Wilson’s prowess earned him the title of Nevada Driver of the Year in 2019.

Wilson’s meticulous driving precision and profound understanding of truck safety protocols have been key factors in his success. The week-long championship underscored professionalism and dedication as core values, reinforcing the significance of maintaining safety standards. Notably, in the previous year, a father-son duo from UPS also participated in the event, reflecting the dedication of the UPS team to excellence in truck driving.

Credits: This is Reno