TRUCKERS FLOCK TO DALLAS FOR GREAT AMERICAN TRUCKING SHOW
Thousands of truckers and their families filled the Dallas Convention Center in September for the fourth Great American Trucking Show. More than 33,000 truckers and their families enjoyed three days of exhibitions, concerts, seminars and show trucks. That attendance was up almost 10 percent from 2001.
“The spectacular turnout for GATS proves that truckers see this convention as the best show to attend in the second half of the year,” says Jeff Mason, group publisher for Randall Trucking Media, which sponsors the event.
In addition to the sparkling rigs at Overdrive‘s Pride and Polish show, equipment makers showed off new models and enhancements to old ones. Volvo Trucks of North America displayed its VN series, which combines a comprehensive redesign with new engine technology for meeting the Oct. 1 emissions standards and incorporates enhancements to productivity, aerodynamics and styling. Ford Motor Co. unveiled its 2004 model F-650 and F-750 Class 6 and 7 commercial trucks, offering an expanded range of options for wheelbase, engines, transmission, axles, seating and other components.
Attendees enjoyed free concerts by country stars Tracy Byrd, who was sponsored by Volvo, and John Michael Montgomery, sponsored by Ford.
Several lucky people took home prizes. Joe Charboneau, of Millington, Tenn., won Caterpillar’s Racing Package Giveaway. He gets four free tickets to the 2003 Winston Cup Race at Texas Motor Speedway, along with two nights’ accommodations and $500 cash, compliments of Caterpillar.
James McBryde of Walnut Cove, N.C., won $1,000 in the Proud American Sweepstakes, which is sponsored by Randall Trucking Media, publisher of Overdrive. Robin Goracke, of Denison, Texas, won $1,000 from the Midnight Trucking Network.
