FERGUS, Ont. — Frank Vanderhoeff was named the 2007 Truck News Owner/Operator of the Year this weekend at the Fergus Truck Show.

Vanderhoeff boasts a 33-year safe driving career, with 23 of those years coming as an owner/operator. He serves his own customer base, hauling wood products and other commodities into the US. Vanderhoeff is contracted to Associate Carriers, which takes care of billing, safety and compliance and other administrative responsibilities, allowing the O/O to concentrate on driving.

Customers rave about Vanderhoeffs professionalism and on-time delivery record. They say they can set their watch to his arrival and yet he maintains an impeccable on-time delivery record while remaining in compliance. He has a clean drivers abstract and customers note he always weighs his truck before leaving the yard.

Vanderhoeffs partner Judy refers to him as a diehard truck driver. When hes not on the road, Vanderhoeff contributes to a number of worthwhile causes, most notably local police and fire associations.

For a full report on this years Owner/Operator of the Year, watch for the September issues of Truck News and Truck West. The Owner/Operator of the Year award is the longest-running and most prestigious award bestowed upon a Canadian owner/operator. Vanderhoeff wins $3,000 cash, a $2,500 trip for two and a diamond ring fit for a champion.

He was also presented with a number of other prizes from sponsors, which include Markel Insurance, Goodyear and Freightliner as well as the Owner/Operators Business Association of Canada.