A team of Australian Isuzu truck technicians has narrowly missed out on top honours, taking second place at this year’s prestigious Isuzu World Technical Competition, (commonly known as the ‘I-1 Grand Prix’) held in Japan in early December.The 2013 competition was split into two divisions according to emission regulations, with the Australian team falling three points short of eventual winners and local favourites, Japan, in the strict ‘Euro 4/5’ emission category.
Comprising Gold Coast Isuzu Technician, Richard Badman, Midcoast Trucks Technician, Andrew Keeys and coached by Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) Technical and Fleet Service Manager – NSW, Jeff Berry, the Australian team added to the good results of recent years which included first place in 2011.
To place second, the Australian team defeated entrants from nine Isuzu truck distributor nations world-wide, with each team required to complete a series of tests examining measurement accuracy, vehicle inspection standards, fault identification capability, repair ability and theoretical understanding.
The strong result completes a six month process for the team members in which they first had to see off competitors as part of IAL’s own domestic National Technical Skills Competition, for the right to represent IAL and the Australian Dealer Network at the international competition.
IAL National Training Manager, David Smith, said the competition was hotly contested.
“The event is now in its eighth year and with each passing year, the competition has grown more intense,” Mr Smith said.
“Competition difficulty also dramatically increased this year with much more complex practical tasks, while duration of the theoretical exam was extended, making things very tough.
“In light of these circumstances, a second placing to Japan is an excellent outcome.
“Congratulations to Richard, Andrew and Jeff – they’ve represented IAL very well and there’s no doubt that Australian Isuzu truck customers are leaving their trucks in good hands when servicing comes around.”