Beyond the Roar: A peek into the daily lives of Monster Jam drivers

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

Monster Jam, the world’s most action-packed motorsports experience, is set to return to Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, for the second consecutive year after last year’s successful run.

A fleet of 5,500kg monster trucks will once again roar into the Etihad Arena for two shows on June 8 and a third show on June 9, promising an adrenaline-fuelled weekend of motorsport mayhem.

As fans prepare for another heart-pumping Monster Jam action, let’s delve into the lives of the drivers who make it all happen.

Here’s a glimpse into the extraordinary lives and daily routines of some of the drivers participating: Matt Cody, Myranda Cozad, Blake Granger, Charlie Pauken, and Bari Musawwir.

Cody steps into the driver’s seat of the legendary Grave Digger, aiming to continue its legacy of success.

Hailing from Williamsport, Maryland, Cody is a dedicated father of four who cherishes family time and outdoor adventures. When not on the Monster Jam circuit, he enjoys riding 4-wheelers, tending to his vast 54-acre property, and staying active.

“I’m a morning guy, so I always wake up early, have a cup of coffee and get breakfast at the hotel,” said Cody explaining his daily routine.

“I like to be at the stadium at a good time to be able to walk the track, check the truck out, and have a conversation with the crew chief. I always try to give it 100% at every event! After the event, I enjoy hanging out and getting some good food.”

Cody says he doesn’t have a lot of free time, but when he’s not on the road travelling, he has a full-time job at home driving a semi-truck travelling the interstates.

“When I’m home, I have four kids that keep us busy. All in all, I have an amazing wife who makes all this possible!”

Cozad, an adept driver known for her aggressive yet thrilling style, commands the awe-inspiring Thor truck, captivating audiences with her passion for big air. Hailing from Davenport, Iowa, Myranda likes to go to the gym during her free time on the road to make sure I stay fit and ready to compete.

On event days, Myranda rises early, completes her morning routine, and heads to the venue for a full day.

“I always call back home before each event for good luck and good vibes,” she says. “We will then do trackside interviews, get into our safety gear and get ready to strap in our trucks.

The event goes fast for us. During intermission, I grab a water and touch base with my technicians. After the event, we usually grab dinner and go back to the hotel to do it all again.”

Granger, a former ATV Racing Champion, channels his energy into the wild El Toro Loco, embodying an “aggressively calm” driving style. Hailing from Lafayette, Louisiana, Blake’s passion for racing extends from the dirt tracks to the Monster Jam circuit, while balancing fatherhood and competition.

Blake’s routine includes gym sessions and track inspections, highlighting the importance of balance and perseverance in his career.

“I like to start my mornings with a banana and orange juice, nothing else! It always seems to work best for my body in being ready to go for the day,” says Blake.

“Right before the event begins, I like to Facetime my kids and family as they always give the confidence boost needed to perform at my best. Once the helmet comes on, it’s game time! The event starts and we get right into Racing, then my favourite 2 Wheel Skills, Donuts, then Freestyle.

Once the event is over, finding a place to relax in peace and quiet is always a plus; it gives me time to wind down and recall everything that went on during the event.”

Blake says the most memorable performance would definitely have to be the Liwa Festival in Abu Dhabi. “Having the opportunity to perform in the desert was absolutely amazing. I am a massive motorsports fan, and getting to experience all the incredible activities in Liwa was a dream come true.”

Pauken commands the formidable Megalodon, thrilling fans with his skill and finesse behind the wheel. Starting his mornings with a hearty breakfast, Charlie navigates the demands of media engagements and pre-event preparations with ease, finding solace in post-event reflections and family time.

Balancing his career with personal life is a challenge that Charlie tackles with the support of his family and hobbies.

“The morning always starts with a good breakfast because I wake up hungry,” says Pauken. “Some of the best parts of my day consist of the Pit Party which is held before the event and gives the Monster Jam fans access to the drivers and vehicles to get autographs and take photos.”

When asked about balancing the demands of his profession with personal life and downtime, Pauken said: “It is definitely a challenge to balance your life in this style of career when you’re gone for weeks at a time. My personal life and downtime are just that, filled with family, friends, and activities, such as camping, gardening, or wrenching on projects.”

Musawwir pilots the Black Panther Monster Jam truck, boasting a decorated career highlighted by accolades such as Rookie of the Year. His routine includes breakfast with friends and quality time with his family, emphasising the importance of balance between his profession and personal life.

“I wake up, brush my teeth, wash my face and/or take a shower, then I get breakfast with friends,” said Musawwir while talking about his daily routine. “I love pancakes, waffles, cinnamon rolls, eggs, bacon, sausage, French toast, orange juice, and fruit. Not at all at one sitting though! Lol. I check in with my family via call or text as well.”

Talking about balancing personal and professional lives, Musawwir said: “I try to devote as much time at home to my family when I’m home. I like to spend time with them every chance I get.”