[Racer Duck]

Raymond James Stadium
Tampa, FL
01/19-19/2008

The threat of rain materialized in short order and made an unwelcome appearance for the annual Monster Jam visit to Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. Fans braved the elements and the hard work of the track crew got the show underway on time, despite a falling drizzle after large amounts of rainfall in late afternoon.

Twelve trucks were introduced, but the attrition started immediately when Gunslinger broke during the introductions. The remaining trucks to the soupy course for their qualifying and, despite a five second penalty for an on-course violation, Maximum Destruction earned the top seed from the time trials.

The Grave Digger truck went hunting in freestyle and bagged a 28, putting the truck onto its side in the final seconds. The truck was left in that spot, despite the fact one more truck still had a shot at the floor.

Maximum Destruction hit the floor with a vengeance, clearing bus stacks and wreaking havoc and really putting the equipment through its paces. A tired and hurt truck gave up the ghost with a few seconds left, coming to a stop near the judges who scored it equal to Grave Digger at 28, but the tiebreaker went to Maximum Destruction.

A jubilant Tom Meents took his helmet into the stands, presenting it to a young fan as a great Monster Jam souvenir. Not to be outdone, Randy Brown ripped the skull and crossbones flag from Grave Digger and presented it to a young fan.

Team Florida captured the Quad Wars main. Democross saw Robert Kissam victorious. Moe won the demolition derby to close the Saturday evening program.

A wet but happy crowd met the monster truck drivers for a post-race autograph session and smiles were abundant. Monster Jam gained the upper hand on the weatherman in Tampa.

Monster Jam Racing Winner: El Toro Loco

Monster Jam Freestyle Winner: Maximum Destruction

(sorry, no pics)

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