Tim Chapman 
EDINBURG – Two Texas monster truck drivers shared the difficulties and rewards of living life in the fast lane. Jeff Murphy and his brother Justin Murphy have been in the monster trucking business for over a decade.
“You got a lot of time up and down the road, a lot of repairs, a lot of damage, a lot of costs a lot of long hours. Your family’s got to be behind you to do this,” Jeff said.
He mentioned that the monster trucks aren’t the only vehicles getting beat up at the events. At the first Twisted Steel Monster Truck Tour event in Edinburg, two monster trucks couldn’t make it to the show because the semi-trucks that were transporting them broke down.
“We’ve never missed a show, and I always leave it on the track,” said Jeff. “They always get their money’s worth when we run.”
With all the frustrations that occur that leave the drivers and teams fuming, there are always good moments that make experiencing the hardships well worth it.
Justin mentioned that his favorite part of being a monster truck driver is traveling and meeting new people. While interviewing Jeff, he stopped to sign a young fan’s flag and added that the smiles of the fans are what makes the job great.
“I am now a grandpa and I have two little ones so it kind of reenergizes you,” said Jeff.
Jeff and Justin Murphy are optimistic on their new venture with their creation of the Twisted Steel Monster Truck Tour and plan on coming back to Edinburg annually.
