OK everybody, before you sit back and enjoy my gut splitting humour for the month, I want you to turn to page 43.

You’ll see an ad promoting nominees for the Owner/Operator of the Year Award.

Presented annually, it’s sponsored by Freightliner, Goodyear and Markel and recognizes Canada’s top owner/operator.

So how do you qualify? The criteria may be different than you think. This award is meant to recognize the guy or girl who goes that extra mile for their family, employer and community.

They’re the people who volunteer at the local food bank or take the time to help rookie drivers learn the business.

Granted, some are heroes but that isn’t a prerequisite. The judging panel is more interested in people who are willing to lead by example.

Of course, a clean abstract and an accident-free driving record won’t hurt your chances either.

Yes, there are financial benefits. A ring that truly is fit for a champion, a $3,000 RESP (Registered Education Savings Plan) and a $2,500 holiday voucher will put you poolside with a pina colada during the cold dark days of February.

We’re planning on presenting this year’s award during the Fergus Truck Show July 23 – 25. It’s located about an hour northwest of Toronto and the winner (along with their significant other) will be our guest for the weekend.

And as if that’s not enough, we’ll feature the winner’s smiling face on the September cover of both Truck News and Truck West.

Since taking the reins, I’ve had the opportunity of meeting the past four winners and it has truly been a pleasure.

Perhaps the hardest part of our job is actually making the final decision.

There are many, many deserving nominees but unfortunately there can only be one winner.

One thing is for sure, if you aren’t nominated, you can’t win. If you’re reading this and know someone who you think may qualify, please complete the registration form and send it in. The top 10 nominations will be contacted by phone and asked to provide a more in-depth description of their accomplishments. At that time we’ll also require an abstract.

The award isn’t about the monetary benefits our winners receive. It’s about recognizing a quality individual.

More often than not, these people tend to downplay their accomplishments.

They aren’t looking for a pat on the back or a special bonus at the end of the year. They do what they do because that’s who they are.

And we think that’s damned important.

– Rob Wilkins is the publisher of Truck News and he can be reached at 416-442-2097.