Isuzu names NZ’s top technicians

For the second consecutive year Isuzu has named Ashley Bennelick and Mark Broadbent as winners of the New Zealand round of  I1 GP, a global event designed to test truck technicians on their abilities and skills.

The test includes six stages, including a written exam and timed activities from electrical wiring to pre-delivery inspections. Held in more than 18 countries, local winners progress to a final world competition held in Japan on November 20/21 and will vie for the coveted Golden Spanner.

Bennelick is from Transport Diesel and Marine (TDM) in Auckland and Broadbent from Auckland Truck Specialists. Andy Oakley of Blackwells in Christchurch is on standby as first reserve if either winner cannot attend the world champs.

The Kiwis secured an impressive fourth place last year, missing third place by just two points.

Trevor Moreland, Isuzu after sales manager, will again step up as mentor and coach for the world champs, and he is confident the pair can place even higher this year.

“Ashley and Mark have worked incredibly hard to secure another national title this year and after last years’ experiences at the worlds, I’m confident they can do even better in Japan,” says Moreland.

Open to all Isuzu technicians in NZ, the final qualifying took place in Auckland last month where seven technicians battled it out.

Isuzu general manager Oliver Foote praised the two winners and their mentor for the work they had put into preparing for the world champs.

“This competition will see the best of the best face off in a gruelling two day challenge and I am confident that the New Zealand team’s dedication, experience and hard work will see them represent our country to the highest degree,” says Foote.