Eddie Tuia, Tevita Toetu on top at 2022 driving competition

Pictured above: Proudly representing Lynden are, from left, Robert Wood, Brian Ambrose, Justus Uphus, Eddie Tuia, Mike Gaiser, Tevita Toetu, Ryan Vangorder and Billy Mast.

Lynden drivers were once again in the driver's seat competing in the Alaska Trucking Association's Driving Championships in Anchorage. Justus Uphus, Lynden Transport Service Center Manager in Anchorage, and Dave Heston, Equipment Manager for Alaska West Express, both expressed their appreciation and pride for the drivers who took part.

Alaska West Driver Eddie Tuia took first in the 5-axle Truck/Trailer Division, and Brian Ambrose placed second in the Truck/Tanker Division. Lynden Transport Driver Billy Mast took third in the 3-axle van category, Robert Wood placed second in doubles and Tevita Toetu placed first in the 5-axle flatbed.

All 51 competitors started with a written test on Friday night followed by a walk-through of the course. "The drivers show up bright and early on Saturday and are required to go straight to the sequester room by 7 a.m.," Dave says. "Drivers turn off and turn in their cell phones and stay in that room until it is their turn to drive the course with no outside contact whatsoever. Afterward, they must report straight to the pre-trip station where they search for defects on a truck to earn points." Each driver is competing for a chance to represent Alaska and their companies at the national competition in Indianapolis in August.

"We are proud of all our drivers that go out on the road every day for the Lynden companies, and this gives them a chance to do something fun and represent the companies they work for in a public setting," Dave says. "Many drivers are on the road by themselves all day long and to be able to get together with their peers and show off their talents is good for us all."