By Joe Contreras, Latin Life Denver Media

At 61 years young, Joe Cypher is still a kid at heart, mind, spirit, body and soul. He loves what he does for a living and would not change much in his life despite being a paraplegic. While serving in the Army a vehicle rollover accident left him paralyzed from the waist down.

As a kid his mom would buy him toy cars, trucks and tractors. He loved them all. Growing up he began collecting all hot wheels toys he could get his hands on. Now as an adult he not only drives them in Hot Wheels shows all around the country but owns much of the 5 Alarm vehicle he currently shows off and drives in competition. He has had to modify 5 Alarm to where it is all controlled by his hands as he is not able to use his legs. Joe sees it as an advantage over the other drivers. “My responses from my brain only need to get to my hands and not all the way to my feet. I think it gives a split second advantage.” he said.

“It’s a blast! Joe told Latin Life Denver Media.” It much better and funner than other Monster Trucks shows where Joe had worked previously. “If you want a fun family show that is exciting and a great bonding experience then this Hot Wheels show is for you.” he said, cautioning attendees to bring ear plugs as the roar of the engines does get pretty loud.

What’s even more special about this show is the glow in the dark lighting that is featured on all the vehicles throughout the entire show. The arena lights are turned down and each Hot Wheels vehicle does its jumps, spins and other tricks with special glow lights to further add to the entertainment. For Joe, It is all great fun, but for him, he likes the freestyle part of the show the best. It allows the drivers to do their own thing, showing off what their vehicle is capable of.

Joe Cypher is a seven or eight time Hot Wheels champion. He isn’t quite sure how many championships he has. That’s not why he competes. He does it for the love of the sport and the enjoyment he sees from fans, young and young at heart alike.

Joe will be in Denver this weekend August 8th and 9th for three shows only at Denver’s Ball Arena. (see below for show times)

There’s even a pre-show where kids and their parents can take photos with the vehicles and drivers while getting an autograph or two. There also a hot wheels toy set up complete with the infamous yellow race track where attendees can actually interact with the latest hot wheels toys and accessories.

Along with Joe Cyphers’ 5 Alarm attendees will see Mega Wrex, Tiger Shark Bone Shake, Bigfoot, Gunkster and introducing the brand new Skelesaurus, the giant that unleashes his fossil fury. Fans can also witness a special appearance from a transforming robot, plus the high-flyers of Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Freestyle Motocross Team. Special kids pricing is available for all shows providing a BIG value for the whole family!

Hot Wheels fans also have the chance to participate in the all-new Power Smashers Pre-Show Party, held two and a half hours prior to every performance. The unique experience provides fans access to the arena floor where they can get up close and see the outrageous designs and epic size of the Hot Wheels Monster Trucks along with autograph signings from their favorite drivers and performers. Each Power Smashers Pre-Show Party ticket includes an autograph card, souvenir pass, and a lanyard exclusive to Powers Smashers Pre-Show Party attendees. Passes will be available to purchase while supplies last.

The new Pre-Show VIP Backstage Experience is an exclusive tour guided by the hosts of Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live! Experience what happens behind the scenes before all of the smashing and crashing goes down. See the Hot Wheels Monster Trucks up close and personal, get your VIP Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Official Souvenir Merchandise Bundle and receive exclusive access into the Power Smashers Pre-Show Party! VIP passes are limited and available to purchase while supplies last.

Fans can go to HotWheelsMonsterTrucksLive.com for more information.

Tickets and event information are available at www.hotwheelsmonstertruckslive.com. Tickets are subject to convenience and facility fees.

Show times are as follows:

Saturday, August 9, 12:30PM / Power Smashers Pre-Show 10AM-11:15AM / VIP 10:45AM

Saturday, August 9, 7:30PM / Power Smashers Pre-Show 5PM-6:15PM / VIP 5:45PM

Sunday, August 10, 2:30PM / Power Smashers Pre-Show 12PM-1:15PM / VIP 12:45PM