Relay Payments today announced the five semi-finalists for its second annual Haul of Fame contest, which the company said honors inspiring truck drivers and their contributions to the trucking industry.
More than 2,500 votes were tallied during the public voting process, revealing the 2024 Relay Payments Haul of Fame Top Five. These drivers include:
Kirk Phillips Phillips has been a truck driver for 43 years with Johnsonville Trucking, amassing over 3.1 million safe miles. A member of the Wisconsin Motor Carriers President’s Safe Driver’s Club for 25 years, Phillips is known for his dedication to safety and mentorship. He also drives the ‘Big Taste Grill’ truck, providing food and supplies during disaster relief events.
Roger Machback Machback has been driving trucks for 24 years and returned to the road in 2008 after losing his right arm in a boating accident. He designed a custom prosthetic arm and became one of the first in Maine to qualify for interstate travel with an amputation. Machback now advocates for other amputees, helping them regain their CDLs and adapt to life post-amputation.
Fidel Herrera Herrera has been a truck driver for 20+ years, starting with a local supermarket before obtaining his CDL. Known for his dedication to safety, clean trucks, and mentoring fellow drivers, Herrera enjoys the freedom of the road and providing excellent service. He is a respected owner-operator and passionate advocate for the trucking community.
Deb Labree Labree, a truck driver for 18 years, is a key figure in Women in Trucking, serving on the organization’s board and the Image Team. She exemplifies that trucking is not just a “man’s job” and is a role model for aspiring female drivers. Labree is also committed to safety and efficiency, making her an inspiration for all in the industry.
A celebrity judging panel will now evaluate these five drivers, and two of them will ultimately be selected as the 2024 Haul of Fame winners. Judges include:
- NASCAR legend Jeff Gordon, four-time NASCAR Series Cup champion and current vice chairman of Hendrick Motorsports
- Timothy Dooner, the award-winning podcaster who hosts and produces FreightWaves’ WHAT THE TRUCK?!?
- Clarissa Rankin, one of the most well-known female truck drivers, CDL school owner and TikTok influencer with 1.8 million followers who advocates for women in trucking
- Ryan Droege, CEO and co-founder of Relay Payments
The two winners will receive numerous prizes, including a trip to the Quaker State 400 race weekend in Atlanta Sept. 6-8, ahead of National Truck Driver Appreciation Week. Relay Payments serves as a primary sponsor of NASCAR Cup Series driver William Byron and the No. 24 Hendrick Motorsports team. The drivers will also be featured on the podcast with Dooner and receive a $250 fuel voucher.
