Here’s the Scoop….On Roy Pridgeon
And The Ice Cream Man Monster Truck!
By Laura Erickson, editor, LaGrange Moms
LaGrange Moms recently had the opportunity to interview Roy Pridgeon, driver for the Monster Jam® monster truck tour. The central Florida native travels the country competing in Monster Jam events, usually driving the Ice Cream Man truck, a real eye-catcher for younger fans!
LM: What led you to monster truck competition, and how/when did you first begin?
Roy: : I’ve been in motor sports my whole life. When a friend who was in the business mentioned an opening for a crew, I went for it. After working as a fabricator and crew member for a while, I had the chance to drive for J.R. McNeal. I started out in Razin Cane and now mostly drive the Ice Cream Man.
LM: Tell us what driving one of these trucks is like for you.
Roy: It’s a lot of fun! It’s hard work and pretty physical….we definitely take some impact in these trucks. But it’s great. I think of it like a big brother throwing me around in a bounce house. There’s some flying, some crashing, and I love it.
LM: How important is safety in this sport? What safety measures do drivers take?
Roy: These trucks are built with the utmost safety standards. I’ve been upside down quite a few times and never been hurt. The cages, seats, and roll bars are built to exact standards to withstand the impact on the trucks. We also have state-of-the-art helmets and restraints. It’s almost overkill…we take it very seriously.
LM: Is this your only job or do you have another “day job”?
Roy: This is my only job. I love it.
LM: What about your family? Do they travel with you?
Roy: My wife travels with me sometimes, and my parents and her parents come when we are close to home. The first quarter of the year is really busy, but then it slows a little and we get some down time.
LM: What advice do you have for anyone wanting to enter the sport?
Roy: They should contact as many teams as possible and talk to drivers and crew members. These guys are very approachable. Also, many technical colleges have classes just for monster truck mechanics. Stick with it! If you want it bad enough, you’ll get there.
LM: Any suggestions for those attending one of the shows this weekend?
Roy: Drivers are usually available before and after the shows for questions and autographs. Sometimes when kids come up to ask us a question, they get nervous or overwhelmed and forget the question. If parents can help them write it down before they come, then they’ll have that backup. We spend as much time as we can with our fans….they make all of this possible!
What to Know If You Go:
What: Monster Jam
When: Friday, February 27 at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, February 28 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Where: Macon Centriplex Coliseum
Cost: Advance ticket prices start at $10 for kids and go up to $30 per person; $2 more on day of show. Click here for more information or to purchase tickets.
