Riding on the coat tails of the successful 2004 Pilot Truck Driver Challenge, Pilot Travel Centers has returned in 2005 for a more comprehensive and tougher Truck Driver Challenge. Transport drivers from all the Nextel Cup teams are again invited to test their skills and demonstrate why they are labeled as the best in the business. Pilot Travel Centers has matched its previous lucrative reward by offering the winner of the 2005 Challenge a grand prize of $50,000.

In a Challenge designed around SAFE and RESPONSIBLE truck driving, categories such as Equipment Inspections and Safety Quizzes will ensure that the drivers are kept on their toes. Pilot Travel Centers has also increased the performance expectations by including three Chicane Course Challenges. Drivers are required to display their skill and accuracy in maneuvering 80 foot haulers through tight turns and pin point stops. A favorite of most drivers, the Chicane Course, will surely bring out the best in these unsung heroes.

Returning for the Challenge is 2004 Champion Jim Baldwin. Baldwin reintegrated the feelings of most transport drivers when stating the importance of the Challenge. "In the past we have had competitions that just haven't allowed us to do what we do best," said Baldwin. "Driving these haulers, or any truck for that matter, takes a lot of skill and patience. It is great to see Pilot challenging everybody on the road to raise their awareness towards road safety."

The Challenge has also been extended to the professional truck driver. As customers refuel at Pilot Travel Centers, they have the opportunity to receive rewards for their loyalty through the Pilot Driver Payback Program. The customer who has the most Pilot Driver Payback points and a clean, safe driving record at the end of the challenge will receive $50,000. This "safety first" attitude reflects Pilot's customer driven values. "We wanted to create a contest for truck drivers that reflected the values important to our industry," said Mark Hazelwood, Executive Vice-President of Pilot Travel Centers.

The 2005 Truck Driver Challenge has again created a buzz around the garage. For more details, please see the Official Rules or go to www.pilottruckchallenge.com.