26 August 2002: One of the most talked about aspects of the Truck Show over the years has undoubtedly been the Static Display Competitions. As with any competition there are winners and losers. Inevitably, the winners take pride in their prize-winning efforts while the losers question the integrity of the adjudicators and the system in general.

With standards rising year after year, one must appreciate that the adjudicator’s job is becoming more and more difficult. With more than 50% of the marks allocated to the trucks appearance and the general condition of the vehicles running gear, it is the marks awarded for Road Safety items that ultimately decide who goes home with the Penrose Crystal and who has to wait until next year for another attempt. For the 2002 Show, bonus points will be awarded for trucks fitted with a Hands free Phone Kit.  A visible Hard-Hat in Construction Vehicles will also gain 10 valuable points.

In order for the adjudicators to operate to the best of their ability, entries will be confined to 250 vehicles. Thereby a set time will be allocated for thorough inspection of each vehicle by the qualified judging panel.

As in previous years, a tried and trusted format of examination is used. Each vehicle must have a current tax disc, insurance disc (in the case of Northern Irish /British trucks, a copy of the Insurance Cert will suffice) and where applicable a Tacograph/Speedlimiter Calibration sticker.

Keys must be left in the ignition to check mileage as some trucks have digital displays. While one adjudicator checks these items out, two others inspects the chassis and bodywork. Springs, airbags, shocks are given the once over as are tyres and steering. This year, tyre gauges will be used to decide the exact thread depth and award between 10-50 marks accordingly. The other judge takes a look at the cabs interior, while the road safety aspects of the vehicle are documented at this time also. Condition of the driver’s seat has lost marks for some of the entrants in the past. All too often tatty seats and seat covers have been the vehicle’s down-fall and instantly created a poor impression in the eyes of the adjudicators. Obstructions on the windscreen and dash are other pet hates of his.

As Road Safety becomes more and more important each day, this particular judge likes to see certain items on board which may help to reduced the road fatalities eg. Reflective signs, marker lights, fire extinguisher, first aid kit, reflective jackets and warning triangle.

All three judges then stand back and give their overall impression of the complete vehicle. Naturally, if it carries an eye-catching colour scheme with flowing livery from truck to trailer (or body) top marks will be assured in the paintwork category.

Although the Static Display Competition is only one aspect of the Irish Truck Show, it is where the most collective effort is to be seen. Owners and drivers transform their every day working vehicles into showroom models in double quick time to be in contention for one of the most sought after prizes in the industry – Top Truck 2002.