Sturges Motorsports

Sam and the jet truck ready for some action

—A MEMORABLE MOMENT— Two gentlemen sit down to sign autographs for fans and fans are in for a treat; because these gentlemen are none other than..

Sam Sturges & Dennis Anderson.

Did you get their autograph today in Chandler, Arizona?

Remembering: Dan Runte

We, along with the monster truck community around the world mourn the loss of one of the most successful monster truck racers, Dan Runte.

Dan was a driven professional, loved his fans and drove Bigfoot to countless accolades for more than 30 years.

It is with a heavy heart that we officially announce the passing of Dan Runte, our friend and co-worker. Dan was considered the greatest monster truck driver of all time, but more importantly, he was a good man. There isn’t another person who jumped further, went faster, and won more races and championships. Dan was the what everyone wanted to be as a driver. We heard “I wanna’ be like Dan Runte” many, many time over these 30+ years.
Dan always represented BIGFOOT like no one else. It didn’t matter if things were great or every part of the truck was broken and he worked all night to fix it. He always had a smile and a great attitude talking with fans, sponsors, and just about anyone.
There isn’t anything in the monster truck world that Dan hasn’t done or been a part of it.
What many of you might not know is that Dan has been running the BIGFOOT shop and working with and training and encouraging all of our current drivers. He has instilled in them the never say never attitude; the treat others as you want to be treated or treat them better. Put the fans before yourself and always do the best show you possibly can. One of the most important things he taught us all is to “never go back, just keep moving forward.”
Dan’s legacy will live on for generations. All of the people he taught will become teachers themselves and show everyone the Dan Runte way. He couldn’t have taught us all any better!
Dan’s biggest passion was finally having more time to spend with his wife Mindy these last few years. Mindy, we know all the sacrifices you’ve made over the years letting and helping him live his dream, and you are in all of our thoughts and prayers.
Dan Runte was a husband and a father, a mentor and a teacher, and a friend to so many; there just aren’t enough words to express our sorrow.
Dan, you were loved by many, but you were especially loved by your BIGFOOT family, both past and present. We will do our best to carry on your legacy! You are a true legend.

We are thankful for the lovely birthday wishes from everyone. Sincerely, Sam and Peggy Sturges