Pilot awards Kenworth truck and cash prizes to Road Warrior champions
Pilot Travel Centers recently celebrated the remarkable achievements of professional drivers by announcing the winners of the 2025 Road Warrior contest. This annual competition not only highlights individual excellence in the trucking industry but also recognizes the dedication and commitment that these individuals exhibit every day on the road.
Stacy Batiste, a seasoned driver from Lafayette, Louisiana, has been named the 2025 Road Warrior champion, a title that comes with a stunning 2019 Kenworth W9 truck as his grand prize. This custom-built vehicle, tailored specifically for the contest by Diesel Brothers, exemplifies not just a reward but also a celebration of Batiste's exceptional career spanning over three decades.
The Winners and Their Achievements
In addition to the prestigious title awarded to Batiste, the competition also recognized Bobby Peeker from Woodruff, South Carolina, as the secondary winner. Peeker received a monetary prize of $10,000 and a significant donation of $25,000 to a charity of his choosing, underlining the contest's commitment to giving back to the community.
- Stacy Batiste: Winner of the 2025 Road Warrior contest.
- Grand Prize: A 2019 Kenworth W9 truck.
- Bobby Peeker: Runner-up with a $10,000 cash prize.
- Charity Donation: $25,000 donated in Peeker's name.
Recognizing Professional Drivers
Pilot Travel Centers emphasized the enormous volume of entries received for the contest, with thousands of nominations highlighting the tireless work of drivers across the nation. Stacy Batiste was selected for his “tireless dedication and commitment to professional driving,” a sentiment echoed by Jordan Spradling, Senior Vice President of Transportation and Midstream Assets at Pilot Company. He remarked on the "dedication to safety and service" that both winners exemplify.
Batiste, who boasts an impressive 1.5 million accident-free miles (approximately 2.4 million kilometers), is a Marine Corps veteran known for mentoring younger drivers in the industry. His efforts in fostering a culture of safety and professionalism resonate deeply within the trucking community.
The Custom Kenworth W9 Truck
The Kenworth W9 awarded to Batiste is not just any truck; it is a finely tuned machine equipped with a Paccar MX-13 engine and features a mid-roof sleeper design. This vehicle stands as a testament to Batiste’s years of service and expertise in the field. The truck, valued significantly, comes alongside a cash prize of $50,000, making the total reward an incredible acknowledgment of Batiste's career.
A Surprise Presentation
The award ceremony took place on October 21, catching Batiste off guard while he was working on the road. He was presented with the keys to his new truck and the cash prize at a Flying J location in Baytown, Texas, an event filled with excitement and celebration.
Runner-Up Highlights
Bobby Peeker, the runner-up, also has an impressive record, with over 1 million accident-free miles (approximately 1.6 million kilometers). Like Batiste, he is a Marine Corps veteran, and he actively participates in truck shows while supporting causes like the Special Olympics and veterans’ programs. His commitment to community service further demonstrates the profound impact that professional drivers can have beyond the road.
- Accident-Free Record: Peeker has over 1 million accident-free miles.
- Veteran Support: Actively works with fellow veterans.
- Community Involvement: Participates in truck shows and supports organizations like Special Olympics.
The Impact of the Road Warrior Contest
The Road Warrior contest serves not only as a platform to celebrate individual drivers but also to shine a light on the essential role that professional truck drivers play in society. These individuals are the backbone of the transport industry, ensuring that goods are delivered safely and timely across the nation.
Pilot Travel Centers' initiative to recognize outstanding drivers helps to foster a culture of appreciation within the industry, encouraging others to pursue excellence in their driving careers. The contest brings attention to the positive contributions of drivers, often overlooked in discussions about logistics and supply chains.
Future of the Road Warrior Contest
The enthusiasm surrounding the Road Warrior contest has led to its continued growth and recognition. As more drivers share their stories of dedication and service, the competition is expected to draw even larger participation in the coming years.
For those interested in following the latest developments, including the announcement of the next round of nominations, check out this engaging video that details the exciting events surrounding the contest:
Pilot Travel Centers continues to champion the spirit of professional driving, ensuring that the efforts of dedicated drivers are recognized and celebrated for years to come.
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