WINNIPEG, Man. – Farley Fries of Big Freight Systems has been named the 2005 Volvo Trucks Canada Manitoba Driver of the Year.

Fries has put in 27 safe years behind the wheel while providing excellent customer service and assistance to other drivers, his employers say.

He has experience on-highway as well as on the winter roads and he currently makes runs to Minneapolis and rural Manitoba. One of the customers Fries makes deliveries to says Fries is an “Ambassador to the outside world.”

They add: “He has done an excellent job for us. His reliability, professionalism, commitment, and dedication to his job, and to our industry, make him a great candidate for the award. The admiration for his accomplishments is felt by us all.” Meanwhile, Fries’ employer says “His extensive knowledge in the trucking industry is only part of what makes him and asset.

“He works hard, steady and intelligently. These attributes ensure that he will achieve benchmarks and milestones that only a few can enjoy.

“What defines him is his ability to switch from hauling very fragile goods such as glass, to driving on some of the most unforgiving terrain, seamlessly. His love of nature and the outdoors makes winter road work some of his favourite.”