Monster Jam 2013

Netflix introduced Evan to monster trucks, and he became an instant fan, accumulating a few toys.  Expecting the indoor arena visits to be too loud and smoky, I searched for an outdoor monster truck event in CT.  Fortunately, we have a short racetrack about 30 minutes away.  Stafford Motor Speedway in Stafford Springs, CT mostly has NASCAR SK modified car events on its 1/2 mile oval track, but it also hosts Monster trucks for one weekend in July each year.

Monster Truck events are more about spectacle than competition, or at least they should be.  Yes, there is an element of competition...who does the best wheelie, who has the most impressive tricks, etc.  The "strict scoring system" has a peculiar way putting the "favorites" on the medal stand, like Olympic figure skating.  I'd rather the scoring not get in the way of the drivers trying to do the most with their trucks.

I think I enjoyed the show as much as Evan did, maybe more.  Yes, the trucks are loud, but they don't compare to the numerous indoor Metallica concerts I've been to.  They are marvelous pieces of machinery.  Ever seen a 10,000-lb truck fly 60 feet off the ground?  We'll be back again.