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Although it appeared to be selling out fast back when my friend shared the link to the Monster Jam Singapore event some months ago, I could never expect just how popular the event turned out to be until the day itself. You see, originating in the USA, Monster Trucks aren't really an international phenomenon, unlike F1 or other forms of motorsports. Even someone like me, who's very interested in cars, doesn't really know much about these massive machines. And yet, on the day of the event, there were throngs everywhere - the carparks were filled, Kallang Wave Mall and the vicinity of National Stadium (where the event was held) were packed with families, and above all, even the Pit Party was crowded. The Pit Party, where you could get up close to check out the Monster Trucks, was a pre-show event that required an additional fee, or the purchase of a premium ticket that included it. Hence, we weren't expecting the crowd, but when we entered the stadium, there were already snaking queues at all the booths, be it for merchandise, or for photo opportunities with the trucks. I guess what Desmond said was true: Big things are funny things, and everyone loves these huge trucks. For those uninitiated, the Monster Jam event features some of the most famous Monster Trucks in history, including the famed Grave Digger, the Megalodon (a Shark-shaped Monster Truck), the JCB Digatron, and the El Toro Loco, along with many others. These trucks are all purpose-built, featuring creative bodywork and bright colours fitted over tubular frame chassis - there were even some Marvel heroes-themed ones! For those into cars, these trucks are powered by 8.8-litre, methanol-fuelled Supercharged Chevy Big Block V8s, putting out over 1,500 horsepower! The event is actually a championship, and not just a stunt show, so there are some competitive elements, with the first segment being a knockout race where two trucks are pitted against one another; the one that completes the course in a shorter time wins. Next up was a skill challenge segment, which was where things got a little exciting - the trucks were doing tricks like nose wheelies (stoppies/endo), wheelies, among other stunts. Some ended up upside down with some damage. The last segment was a freestyle stunt show, and this was quite a spectacle, as the trucks were really going for it - many of them were hurtling through the air, almost three stories high. Considering the weight of each truck being in the ballpark of 5,500kg, you can imagine how crazy it is. Of course, being a freestyle challenge meant even fancier tricks, including some capable of backflips! As a result, many trucks ended up flipping over and getting damaged, which surely added to the entertainment value. Oh - and for these segments, the audiences can cast their scores for each driver, playing a part in deciding who wins the event. As someone interested in automotive and motorsports, it seemed like attending such an event is a no-brainer. But seeing so many families with parents bringing their kids to the event is a little surprising (considering how little exposure the event had) and very encouraging - I truly love it when new generations are introduced to motorsports! Oh, according to the announcements made at the event, it was completely sold out! - Zhi Xuan

anyone going for the monster jam on the coming 7th of Dec? looks good, 2.5hrs. thinking of bringing my nephew, first time ever in Singapore?

[extract] Meet Red Dragon, a custom-built Ford 350 Super Duty Monster Truck which produces a ground-shaking 1308 bhp and comes complete with an air-cannon mounted on the back that can fire a fridge-freezer 80 yards. The hand-built truck will be one of the must-see attractions at the all-new Top Gear Live (www.topgearlive.co.uk) on11