Shell Rotella SuperRigs attracts pride, polish, and professionalism

The 41st edition of the Shell Rotella SuperRigs continues to attract hardworking truck drivers and owner-operators due to their sense of pride, professionalism, and passion for their jobs.

Obtaining a place in next year's Shell Rotella SuperRigs calendar is just as significant as winning a prize. Complements received throughout the performance are a benefit. And even better, families create enduring relationships and memories.

Canadian and American large rigs adorned with chrome and lights have arrived at the CAM-PLEX in Gillette, Wyoming for the truck beauty contest, which will run until June 10.

Barry Kasdorf, a driver for Jade Transport in Winnipeg, is among them. And the long-haul truck driver is well-versed in maintaining his apparatus. During the 2009 installment of SuperRigs, he was selected for the 2010 calendar.

When Kasdorf is finished for the day, he spends about an hour preparing his vehicle for the next day. Then he consumes supper, takes a shower, and retires to bed.

Kasdorf, 61, has been a driver for Jade Transport for the past 21 years. "You are an ambassador for the industry," he says.

"When your truck is clean, you are happier, and it's better for your spirit."

Colt Reich and Jeremy Reich traveled four hours to participate in their first SuperRigs competition. They have attended a few events, but none were this large.

"I've always wanted to be a part of this event, and my son wanted to show off our black truck [2007 Peterbilt 379]," says the 46-year-old owner-operator, who purchased his first truck at age 18. In addition to this vehicle, he also possesses a Peterbilt 379 from 1994 and a Model 362 from 1995.

He acknowledges that keeping the vehicle clean and organized is a lot of work, but says the effort is worthwhile due to the compliments he receives.

Colt, who has been riding with his father Reich, enjoys attending shows and viewing vehicles. "We've logged many miles together," Reich says with a grin.

Mark Aragon and his 14-year-old son Payton arrived from Colorado with a green 2016 Pete 379 with an extended canopy that drew attention.

Payton is the driving force behind the four-year endeavor that has strengthened the relationship between the father and son.

According to Aragon, his son has always loved vehicles. The child would take trucks received as Christmas and birthday presents, cut them in half, and glue them together to create longer rigs or change the sleepers.

The owner-operator is pleased to support his son's ambitions. "I do it because it is my son's vocation. I enjoy seeing the grin on his countenance."

Pat Lahr, an Iowa owner-operator, considers his 2022 Pete 389 a second residence. "I'm delighted to enter and exit it. When people arrive to a truck stop and say something nice, that is what we live for."

Lahr, who has been a truck driver for eleven years, claims that only the absolute finest candidates apply for SuperRigs. Everyone desires a calendar place, and obtaining one would be a privilege.

Rob Harris, who is at the event with his wife Gloria, son Robbie, and grandson, has been driving for nearly half a century and is participating because he finds it enjoyable. He asserts that his fleet has a reputation to uphold and is kept sparkling.

“It’s a bit of pride too,” he adds.