

So, give us some history on Travis Ybarra.
Travis Ybarra:Since I was little I have always loved monster trucks. After the military I was lucky enough to get involved in the industry and have continued to learn almost every aspect of it. I have been a crew member, driver, tech official, event director and now currently I am learning to be a track coordinator.
How did you get started competing in Monster Truck racing?
Travis Ybarra: Being in the right place at the right time pretty much sums it up. My buddy owned a graphic store and asked me to help him with his business. While I was helping him out, we started working on stickers for the Airborne Ranger Monster Truck. Shortly after that, I would go to the shop and help on my off time. A few weeks later Joe asked me to go on the road with him to help crew. One hot day while doing a show in Canada, Joe didn't want to drive so he threw me in the seat to drive the show. Just happens that we were doing that show with Straight Up Racing, the following year Joe was taking a break from the road and Bill offered me a job to drive for him.
What do you enjoy doing while on the road the most?
Travis Ybarra: I enjoy meeting new people, sightseeing new areas and people watching. You can learn a lot about the area by just people watching.
What do you do with your free time?
Travis Ybarra: I'm supposed to have free time? If I'm lucky enough to get my chore list done when I get home, I enjoy going camping at the lake, jumping on the Harley and taking a ride, and anything that involves spending time with my family.
What is your greatest memory as a Monster Truck driver?
Travis Ybarra: My Dad seeing me drive for the first time. When I was little my Dad made sure I never missed a show in our area. When I was younger, everyone would ask me what I wanted to be when I grow up, my answers were to be a Police Officer or a Monster Truck Driver and because of my parents pushing me to work hard and never give up I was able to accomplish both dreams.
Do you have any pre-show rituals that you run though?
Travis Ybarra: I walk around the truck to make sure it's ready to go. I climb in and as I put my helmet on and strap in, I clear my mind and relax. I say a little prayer that might include something about not breaking anything on the truck so I don't get yelled at by the boss.
If you were not competing what career path would you follow?
Travis Ybarra: Juvenile Probation. I have always wanted to help the youth. I know how important it is to have a positive role model influence your life for the better.
What’s your favorite food?
Travis Ybarra: My mom's homemade Chicken Fried Steak will always be my favorite. I also love breakfast, I can eat breakfast anytime of the day.
What’s your favorite movie?
Travis Ybarra: Favorite childhood movies were Pete's Dragon and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. I don’t “adult” yet so I don’t have a favorite adult movie.
What’s your favorite television show?
Travis Ybarra: Any crime related shows like NCIS, Criminal Minds, Blacklist, Suits. When I want to laugh I enjoy watching Family Feud with Steve Harvey.
What’s your favorite color?
Travis Ybarra: My favorite color has always been blue, but when I first met my wife she bought me these bright, and I mean bright green converse shoes, I was not thrilled at all. After finally giving in and wearing them, I do have to say like bright green now too.