Myers began his career in the industry after tagging along with local driver Mike Vaters, owner of Vaters' Monster Motorsports. Myers said the feeling of being in a family is what kept him interested in monster trucks.
"It's such a tight family industry," Myers said. "Even though we're competitive out there on the field, everyone helps each other with whatever they need."
Myers acknowledged that driving a monster truck in competition is dangerous, but he said it doesn't scare him.
"You have to have confidence in your safety equipment in order to do stunts like (jumping) over buses," Myers said.
He noted that his most dangerous accident occurred in Montreal several years ago. Myers' truck flew over a school bus and hit a stack of cars. The truck tumbled over it, damaging a good portion of the truck.
The truck damage was extensive, but Myers said it did not bother him. The reaction of fans was more satisfying.
"It doesn't matter how much or what you tore up on the truck, (the crowd's support) brightens up things," Myers said.
Myers said the Vaters team will participate in the show the whole weekend, including the pit party on Saturday.
That's when kids and fans get pictures and autographs from all of the truck drivers next to their trucks.
"You know we're up close and personal (in) pit parties. You see a smile on the kids' faces and it will really make your day," Myers said. "The Monster Jam tour touches all sorts of lives and people."
If you go ...
WHAT: Monster Jam
WHERE:Hagerstown Speedway, on U.S. 40 west of Hagers-town
WHEN: 8 p.m. Friday, July 17, and Saturday, July 18. Gates open at 5 p.m. Friday, 4 p.m. Saturday. Party in the Pits is Saturday 4 to 6:30 p.m. A Saturday event ticket plus a pit pass are required for entry. Family Day show is at 2 p.m. Sunday, July 19; no alcohol is served and gates open at noon.
COST: General admission is $15 in advance; $5 for ages 2 to 12; reserved seating for all ages is $18. Admission at the gate is $17; $5 for ages 2 to 12; and $20 for reserved seats, if available.
CONTACT: For more information on Vaters' Monster Motorsports go to www.blackstallion4x4.com . For more information on Monster Jam go to www.hagerstownspeedway.com/news.htm .
