Last year, we were honored to join Western Star Trucks for the 2024 Star Nation Experience - an adrenaline-filled adventure in Oregon's rugged wilderness. From off-road trucking and fly fishing to ATV thrills, it was an unforgettable celebration of the Western Star community. A standout moment was the behind-the-scenes tour and driver challenge at Daimler Truck's High Desert Proving Grounds in Madras. You can watch our SCS On The Road episode from last year's event below. And this year promises just as much excitement.
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Last week, Western Star announced the winners they selected - not just from their own community, but from ours as well, inviting two ATS players to join the experience. They're also bringing back two past SNE alumni, Casey LaDelle and Tatiana DeYoung, as coaches for this year's Get Tough Challenge. As mentioned earlier, we're excited to be part of this unique event, with Oscar and Beny representing us. They'll be meeting the incredible group of winners and the Western Star team while also capturing the entire weekend to create a special SCS On The Road episode. Now, let's meet the two participants from the #BestCommunityEver!
Tyler
Tyler works for a construction company that specializes in large-scale infrastructure projects - an industry where dependable, heavy-duty equipment is essential. Off the job site, he's an avid American Truck Simulator player, finding a unique connection between his real-world experience and his passion for virtual trucking. What stands out most to him is the level of authenticity and detail brought to Western Star trucks in the game.
"Western Stars feel like the last tough trucks out there. The new 49X is one tough truck that gives a comfortable experience," he says, having driven the truck in real life, he truly appreciates its power and comfort.
Alex
Alex is a dedicated fan of Western Star and American Truck Simulator, with a connection to the brand dating back to his childhood.
"My parents met in Portland, and on a visit there as a kid, I saw my first Western Star tridem log truck, and it left an impression. It has become my favorite brand to play with, logging thousands of miles in both an SFA and an SBA 49X. I had a medical event 7 years ago that left me barely able to walk when I was at my worst in the hospital. I have fought back, working through years of PT and exercises to regain it, so the #NeverBackDown isn't just a slogan for me, it's a mantra for how to break through such a curveball."
We would like to thank Western Star Trucks for this wonderful opportunity to be a part of this adventure again, along with the members of our community. Keep a close eye on Western Star's Facebook and Instagram, and our X/Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Bluesky, and Facebook so you don't miss out on any news from the Star Nation Experience 2025, which Oscar and Benny from our team will also attend. Oregon, here we come!