Monster Jam promises thrills at Thompson-Boling Arena

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) -- Monster Jam has returned to Knoxville with the thrilling experience coming to the Thompson-Boling Arena on April 14 and 15.

A pit party has been scheduled to take place on both days from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m., with shows beginning at 2 p.m.

This year's event features Grave Digger, driven by Tyler Menninga, Ice Cream Man, driven by Roy Pridgeon and Midnight Rider, driven by Tom Herzog, among others.

Grave Digger and Scooby Doo are two of the world's most powerful monster trucks. Drivers said being in Knoxville has been just as much of a thrill for them as it is for spectators, especially when they get to drive their favorite cartoon character.

"Scooby Doo looks like the dog,"

Linsey Read, the truck's driver, said.

"I got the ears going on, I got the tail that wags in the background, so every time you see me whipping along the track, that thing is going in the back, and kids can really relate to it because they watch the cartoons and then they see a big truck that looks just like it. What's better than that?"

Read said driving in Monster Jam has been a dream experience for her, especially as a woman in the arena.

"It is awesome,"

she said.

"Every single weekend I get in it. It's a dream come true. It's so cool that I get to be out here representing all the females. I have three daughters of my own, so coming out here and telling them and showing them they can do it too and not just do it but win it also, it's huge for me."

For tickets to catch Read and all the other drivers, you can call 865-656-4444, visit the Thompson-Boling Arena's box office or purchase them online.