Driver Stanley Hernandez gives the thumbs up before turning up the heat with his howling beast truck, the “Lone Wolf.”

 

GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) - Growling, revving engines, flying mud, and screaming audiences filled the arena at the Butte County Fairgrounds last weekend as the Monster Truck Nitro Tour roared into town.

Two packed shows on Saturday, Sept. 7 brough monster trucks and tuff truck action to Gridley.

Five monster trucks were on display before the show, inviting curious adults and wide-eyed children to get up close and personal. Drivers were on hand to chat, sign autographs and answer question after question.

Monster truck lovers got the chance to climb aboard the back of one of the trucks specially outfitted to give rides!

The snarling “Lone Wolf” truck, piloted by Stanley Hernandez, got huge air out on the muddy track, while Devin Winfield maneuvered the cobalt blue “Velociraptor” into gravity defying headstands. “Boss Gator,” green and grinning with teeth barred, was driven by Taylor Langdon as it chewed through the mud and smoke in the arena.

Fast, high-flying favorites “Wicked Strong,” driven by Brandon Gallie, and “Rockwell Red,” driven by Mason Paul, tore up the arena and seemed to be fan-favorites of the evening show based on the applause.

Showstopper “Wicked Strong,” driven by Brandon Gallie, was a favorite both backstage and during the show. Here Gallie smiles as he signs autographs for excited children.

Filled with enthusiasm, Paul told the Herald before the 7:30 p.m. show that it would be just his fifth show performing after being on the monster truck circuit for three years.

A “super fan” as a kid and with his move up to driving, Paul hoped to inspire youth to follow their passions.

“It’s a dream come true!” Paul said, and his love for the high-octane action could be seen as he piloted his monster through the air.

Mason Paul smiles as he signs this little boy’s checkered flag. Paul took the “Rockwell Red” truck out for his fifth show driving and put on an impressive performance.

Seemingly the group’s headliner, “Wicked Strong” had some wicked moves out of the pit. High speed, 360-spins threw mud into a wild, cheering crowd and brought delight to all ages.

One common thread was that each driver had a “monstrous” love for their sport and were fans themselves. All desired to create an unforgettable experience for the crowd.

After the show, those interested had an opportunity to ride one of the monster trucks.

For more information on the next tour, visit MonsterTruckTour.com.