The Monster Nation tour has been nothing short of spectacular in 2011. Some of the top, independent names in monster trucks including Equalizer, Tail Gator, and Barbarian have put on impressive performances thus far in Southaven (Rounds 1-2) and Bossier City (Rounds 3-4). That great level of competition has left the points chase up for grabs going into the final weekend in Beaumont, Texas. After the first 4 shows on tour, Devin Jones and Barbarian hold the #1 position going into rounds 5,6, and 7, but Union, Missouri’s “Big” Doug Noelke in Tailgator and rising star J.R. McNeal piloting Razin’ Kane are hot on his heels. With the absence of Barbarian in Beaumont this coming weekend, the door is wide open to steal the title away from Jones.
“There are still a lot of points to be had,” said Monster Nation’s Ryan Seddon. “With three shows left, It comes down to who boasts the best, overall performance. Our point’s system breaks down as follows: a racing or freestyle winner is awarded 5 points while a second place finish in racing earns 3 points. A donut or wheelie contest winner is awarded 3 points. We encourage racing at Monster Nation. The guys will go out and freestyle on their own, but we really like to see them get after it in the racing portion.”, said Seddon. Below is the Monster Nation Point Standings going into the final weekend in Beaumont.
As you can see, the quest for the 2011 championship is anyone’s game. Barbarian’s 18 points will be in danger as Noelke in Tailgator and McNeal in Razin’ Kane are in the best position to steal the title with 13 and 11 points, respectively. With so many points still left, one cannot rule out Mike Hawkins in Equalizer and Isaiah Morales in Hot Tamale, who both sit tied for 4th with 8 points each. Can Doug Noelke earn another title for the team? Can rookie J.R. McNeal earn his first title among the titans of the monster truck industry? Will it be Isaiah Morales in Hot Tamale making a repeat from 2010 and claiming his second Monster Nation title in a row? We at TMB will be anxious to find out how the weekend shakes down and wish Monster Nation and the competing teams the best of luck.
For those in the Beaumont area, this event will not be one to miss! Beaumont’s Ford Park will host the final 3 shows beginning Friday, February 18 at 8:00 p.m., again on Saturday, February 19 at 8:00 p.m., and Sunday, February 20 at 3:0o p.m. Doors will open at 7:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday Nights and Sunday afternoon at 2:00 p.m. For ticketing information, visit the Ford Arena Box Office, all Ticketmaster locations, or charge by phone at (800)-745-3000. For more information regarding Monster Nation or further event information, visit their website at www.Monster-Nation.com.