Colin triumphs in national driving competition

Our cement driver Colin Court has been crowned overall winner in this year’s DAF UK Drive Challenge competition, beating 14 other professional drivers to claim the top spot.

Each of the finalists had previously won their regional qualifying round and were put through their paces again in a series of practical and theory tests held over two days to find the best commercial vehicle driver from the UK and Ireland.

As well as being the overall winner, Colin won two tests outright and was a top five contender in seven of the eight challenges set, which included a commentary drive, manoeuvring tests, a tipper challenge and theory examination.

It was the third time Colin had entered the competition – which is opened to drivers of any make of truck – and the second time he competed in the final, having placed second in the 2018 event.

“I first heard about the competition when I was in a DAF dealership in 2016,” said Colin, who is based at our Middlesbrough cement depot.

“I thought I’d have a go and put myself forward but didn’t get through the regional qualifying round that year. I tried again in 2018 and was delighted to make the final and finish second but wanted to see whether I could take one more step up the podium.”

Colin competed in the 2019 regional qualifiers, winning through to the final that should have been held in 2020 but was put on hold due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

He will now go on to represent the UK in the DAF International Driver Challenge, which is being held in Luxembourg on October 1 and 2. He will compete against 19 other country winners from across Europe including Spain, Belgium, Germany and the Czech Republic.

“It is great to be recognised for something that we do everyday,” added Colin. “I think drivers are often under appreciated for the role they play and this competition helps highlight the knowledge, experience and skills needed to be a safe, professional driver.”