Monster Invasion

Monsters have invaded Sevierville, and truck fans throughout the county are flocking to experience the thrill.
Full Throttle Motorsports, located just across the street from the Sevierville Welcome Center on the Parkway, is now offering monster truck rides to enthusiasts of all ages.
Billy West got into the business when he visited Sevier County for the Truckin’ Nationals in June of 2003.
“I was on a trip through Gatlinburg, and people were trying to pay me money to ride in my big Chevy monster truck,” West told The Herald. “So that’s where I got the idea from.”
The Full Throttle truck was built specifically for the attraction. “It took me a few months to build the monster truck – I started in October of last year, and I finished it just a week before we got here,” West said.

Riders are treated to five circuits of the custom-built track, which is part of the Outdoor Adventures complex now being built on the property. Although the monster truck track has only been in operation for little more than two weeks, the complex will soon included hot air balloons, horseback riding, whitewater raft outfitting, and an on-site ATV track for the youngsters. Plans are currently for the complex to open by July 15.
The track itself will be upgraded and expanded soon, with bleachers and a covered area to keep truck fans dry while they crush the competition. Pilot Tony McCarthy guides the powerful beast through the track and puts it through its paces.
Rain or shine, the folks at Full Throttle are serving customers, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day, even when other attractions might close.
“If you’re wanting to ride, we’re driving!” West said.