Monster Jam kicks off 2017 season

TAMPA (FOX 13) - Monster Jam kicked off its 2017 season at Feld Studios Wednesday and FOX 13 News got a sneak-peek at the action from Bay Area drivers. 

Coty Saucier lives in Dade City and drives the Monster Energy truck for Monster Jam. The traveling coliseum show is based in the Bay Area and many of the drivers are happy to come home for a show. 

2017 marks Saucier's fourth year with Monster Jam. 

"This is kind of like a season preview, 2017 kickoff, where we announce new drivers, new trucks," Saucier explained ahead of the show in Tampa. "It's a mixture of being in charge of your own roller coaster and the ultimate stress relief. No matter what's in your way, stomp on the lead petal and let her rip."

Cynthia Gauthier drives the Monster Mutt Dalmatian and is from Apollo Beach.

"The coolest thing is we get to know at the same time with the Monster Jam fans. So it's a special moment, we get to live with the fans," Gauthier said. "To drive a Monster Jam truck is one of the best feelings, the adrenaline is non-stop from the beginning to the end of the show."

"It's an unbelievable feeling, knowing that 10,000 pounds, 1,500 horsepower. It's awesome," added Saucier. 

Tickets go on sale for the new shows later this month.