Visitors to the Montana’s Cookhouse Charity Car Show, on July 14 can expect to have their ideas of souped-up cars overhauled by the more than 175 custom built hot rods, muscle cars and antiques on display.
The show, organized by the Redliners Car Club, promises to deliver in revved-up style an assortment of vehicles built and reconditioned on Vancouver Island. From a 1937 Plymouth Coupe worth $92,000, with a 528 cubic inch Hemi engine that puts out 850 horsepower, to a silver grey Corvette with more than $200,000 worth of fine tuning, spectators can experience the magic of decked out, chopped and channelled, ported and polished high-end cars.
Bob Falk, one of the organizers and participants said the show is attracting some impressive vehicles like a 1939 Plymouth with a memorable paint job.
“When you see it you’ll never forget it.” said Chip Lenton, co-organizer and owner of Chip’s Customs.
All the cars, with their specially tinted paints and custom-built trims, will be dressed in their best finery, buffed and polished to a blinding shine and finely tuned for that perfect purr.
And though spectators won’t be taking the cars for a test drive they are invited to come, look and listen and then pick their favourite. Winners of the People’s Choice will be awarded a variety of prizes, donated by local businesses.
“Suppliers have been very generous in donating prizes,” said Falk.
“We’ve got tool sets, a stainless steel barbecue, a ceiling fan, T-shirts, 200 tins of salmon from St. Jean’s [Cannery] and lots more.”
To submit a car for display, participants pay a $20 entry fee with all proceeds going to the Nanaimo Community Hospice Society.
Each participant will drive home with something, Falk said, they’ll more than make back their entry fee, even if they don’t win one of six top picks prizes.
They’ll also have an opportunity to win cash in the 50/50 draw with 50 per cent of the money collected going to the local senior roller derby group.
In its first year, Falk said he and club members hope the show will turn in to an annual event.
“We’ve got a great location in the parking lot at [Nanaimo] North Town Centre in front of Montana’s Cookhouse,” said Falk. “There’s plenty of parking for visitors and lots of room for displaying the cars.”
Spectators are welcome to come and view the cars and vote on their favourite vehicle from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
