About Us

Our journey began with the indomitable Jerry Herbst, whose mere presence in the gas station industry sent shockwaves through his competitors. Every time he unveiled a new station, the whispers would echo, "Here comes that Terrible Herbst," giving rise to the nickname that has become an integral part of our chain's identity. Another tale traces the name back to a defining moment in the late 1940s when Jerry was venturing to the western United States. While applying for a business license in Cheyenne, Wyoming, a city council member, who happened to own a rival gas station, muttered, "If we let that terrible Herbst in, we'll all go under!" Regardless of its origin, the name stuck, and it has since become synonymous with our brand.

But our story doesn't end at gas stations. The Herbst family carries a profound passion for racing that spans three generations of drivers and envelopes the very essence of our expansive family business. It all began in 1937 with the opening of our first service station, and our commitment to excellence continues to thrive today, both in the community and on the grueling desert race courses.

With over 40 years of racing experience, the Herbst family embodies a true dedication to off-road racing. As the first family of desert racing in Southern Nevada, this legacy began with father Jerry Herbst and has been proudly carried forward by his three sons—Ed, Tim, and Troy, all born and raised in Las Vegas. Through Terrible Herbst Motorsports, they have etched an unparalleled record in the deserts of Nevada, Southern California, and Arizona, as well as in Baja California, Mexico. The Herbst name is synonymous with triumph and distinction in the world of off-road racing.

The legacy continues with the next generation. Las Vegas' own third-generation desert racer, Thor Herbst, has already assumed a commanding position in both the 2023 SCORE Overall and SCORE Trophy Truck Spec point standings following the recent season-opening King Shocks 36th SCORE San Felipe 250, fueled by Baja Vida. Teaming up with his younger brother, Pierce Herbst, the duo achieved their first-ever SCORE class race victory in Round 1 of the prestigious 2023 SCORE World Desert Championship in San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico. Notably, their Trophy Truck Spec class saw a remarkable 43 starters in San Felipe, setting a new SCORE record.

At the heart of our racing prowess lies the iconic Monster Energy Terrible Herbst Motorsports Ford F-150. Ed and Tim have been instrumental in capturing 11 career wins in SCORE Trophy-Truck, including four of the 20 season championships (1999, 2000, 2002, 2003) in this marquee desert racing class, where high-tech, 850 horsepower unlimited production trucks dominate the sands.

Terrible Herbst Motorsports is more than a name—it's a symbol of endurance, passion, and a relentless pursuit of victory. Join us as we continue to push boundaries, leave our mark on the world of off-road racing, and build upon the proud legacy that defines us. Welcome to the exhilarating world of Terrible Herbst Motorsports!