A Commerce City garbage truck driver’s day-to-day routine and competitive edge helped him prepare to take home first prize in Republic Services’ 2025 ROAD-EO Championship on Feb. 18 in Phoenix, Arizona.
The championship pitted 107 finalists from 36 states and Ontario against one another to compete across 10 categories. Ron Torrez, who has driven a garbage truck with Republic Services garbage for nine years, placed first in the small container category, earning himself $5,000 and five extra days of paid time off.
Torrez was initially hesitant to enter the competition, but his wife managed to talk him into it.
“‘What can you lose, Ron? Just try it,’” Torrez said, quoting his wife.
The competition consisted of navigating a timed course requiring parallel parking, alley backing and a serpentine course. Torrez’s work as a garbage truck driver helped him prepare before the big day, inspiring confidence in his ability to win.
“I expected to win,” Torrez said. “That’s how I am. I love competition.”
Even with his confidence, Torrez still felt the pressure on the day of the championship. Torrez said he felt his serpentine obstacle performance was stronger in the practice run than the official run. Additionally, Torrez had to drive a new truck for the competition, further reducing his comfort.
“There’s a lot of people,” Torrez said. “The cameras are on you and it’s game time.”
Despite the pressure and a run that Torrez wasn’t completely happy with, he came out on top in the small container category, securing himself the prize money and the paid time off. Torrez said he gave half the money to his wife and spent the rest on his truck.
Mark Masterson, Torrez’s general manager, highlighted the importance of Torrez’s win for Republic Services.
“Ron’s victory shows the emphasis on not only being safe, but providing an excellent customer experience on a daily basis,” Masterson said.
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