Not long after the finalists had been announced on Championship Saturday, PodWheels Executive Producer Greg Thompson walked up to say hello to two of the past Grand Champions – Wayne Crowder (2004) and Gragg Wilson (2023). In addition to having their names etched forever on the Bendix Grand Champion trophy, both Wayne and Gragg have served as Captains on America’s Road Team. And, as we learn in this edition of the podcast, Wayne and Gragg will share another title within the next few months. Gragg will be joining Wayne in retirement.

While the Championship Round driving course was being set up for the drive off, Gragg talked about the conclusion of his NTDC career and discussed his retirement plans as he prepares to park his truck one last time for UPS. Along with asking Wayne to share advice for Gragg in making the transition, we look back with Wayne on his Grand Champion victory in 2004 as a rookie-rookie.

Our Friend of the Podcast Sponsor for this episode of the NTDC 2025 Series is PROJECT 61. Driving health. Fueling life. Supporting the heroes behind the wheel — that’s what PROJECT 61 is all about. Project-61.org is the web address where the change begins. If you’re a driver — or if you care about someone who is — head over to Project-61.org. You’ll find resources to get started, including access to a free mobile app built specifically for life on the road — plus a chance to take the Trucker Health Pledge and show your support for the men and women behind the wheel. You can even make a donation to help PROJECT 61 keep doing this important work across the industry.

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