Diehl Wilson
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DRIVER INFORMATION
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| Driver name: |
Diehl Wilson |
| Owner of: |
VIRGINIA GIANT |
| Residence: |
Winchester, Va |
| Birthplace: |
Winchester, Va |
| Date of birth: |
June 19, 1951 |
| Years competing: |
Since 1985 |
| Marital status: |
Married |
| Children: |
3 Children |
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DRIVER HISTORY
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There is nothing typical about Diehl Wilson. From his brilliantly painted truck, to his taste in television programs - Diehl Wilson, owner and driver of the Virginia Giant monster truck is a true original.
He is about to launch the next incarnation of his famous monster truck. "It's going to be tangerine, brilliant blue, and purple." Can't wait to see it? Neither can he. He has put his faith in the same man to design his paint for over 20 years, and so Diehl waits to see the finished product.
Diehl raced 2-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive trucks and truck and tractor pulls in the early 80's. A sponsor of his decided that he wanted to build a monster truck simply to build one, but Diehl had other plans; he wanted to make a little money. With a JR's Auto Body, Diehl's primary source of income, helping to keep his growing family solvent, and his wife, Debbie, to manage the business while he was away, Diehl and Virginia Giant were able to compete in up to 40 events a year.
"I enjoy the adrenaline rush of racing, it's something that keeps you young," comments Wilson. The fans are a great part of why all monster truck drivers like their job, states Wilson, "I remember once that there was this young man in a wheelchair at a show, he came every year and we used to give him shirts and hats. And I really enjoyed that because that meant a lot to him."
Diehl wants to put on a good show for the fans, but he doesn't believe that causing a great deal of destruction is the only way to to do that. "Good jumps, good wheelies, good donuts -- I think racing is a small part of what makes for a good show," comments Wilson. "What makes monster truck shows amazing is seeing a truck become so agile," Diehl exclaims.
With 21 years in the monster truck business, Diehl has a few words of wisdom to impart: "Sometimes the things that look the worst are the very best for you even though it's hard to understand why."
About The Truck Virginia Giant has a tangerine, blue, and purple paint scheme applied by Chuck Buckler and painted on a 2006 Ford body. Under the lively eyes, lies Keith Black Hemi motor and 3-Speed Lenco transmission make this Virginian a real Giant with 1500 horsepower.
How did you get involved in monster trucks? I decided to build a truck in 1983, and started competing in 1985.
What's the best thing about being a monster truck driver? The different places you go and the different people you meet.
Career highlights? Being the Thunder Nationals Champion for 3 years in a row, and winning the donut Monster Jam award in 2005.
What is your most memorable moment so far? Rolling over two times in one day in Hampton.
What is the most important thing about being a monster truck driver? To remember that you are a role model for younger people.
Give 4 separate words that describe you. Particular - Calm - Pursuant - Likeable
What is the best part about signing an autograph for a child? When they tell you that you are their favorite driver.
What do you do to prepare for a new season? Rebuild the engine and just go thorugh the whole truck.
Whats your favorite stop on the tour? Richmond, VA
Are you working on anything new right now? Not at this time.
Whats the best thing about your truck? The appearance of it, the color scheme
What gets you pumped to compete? The crowd and the applause
Where are the best fans? Dayton, OH
Best advice to kids who want to become monster truck drivers? Don't give up on your dreams, be persistent
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