Country Classic Car Show at MHV returns to thrill car enthusiasts
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The Country Classic Car Show returned to the Mennonite Heritage Village (MHV) this past weekend to the delight of hundreds of automotive enthusiasts and car buffs. Entries ranged from restored 1920s rat-rods to the latest edition “Vettes” with speeds only limited by chip-enforced governors. Several two-wheeled showpieces were also featured to complete the spectacle.
Show judge Rene Bouchard, owner of Reborn Automative Detailing (RAD) was delighted by each of the 266 entries, the dozens of volunteers who made it possible, and the spectacular sunshine that showcased the mesmerizing paintjobs that typified the displays.
“There were several amazing cars, incredible builds and craftsmanship, rare vehicles and simply, quirky cars,” he said. “I can’t pick a favourite as they all have different stories and history. Just like the people that own them, every car has been through different stages of life and I’m happy they are able to make it out to the show to tell theirs,” said Bouchard.
Organizer and Country Classics Club president Mario Silva was also thrilled with the eclectic entries and with the attendance numbers at this year’s show, as it not only brought together club members and other enthusiasts, but also helped his club and its adopted charity.
“This event is also an important part of our fundraising efforts for Southeast Cancer Support Services. The proceeds raised through the car show, combined with the funds from our annual ‘Cruisin’ for a Cause’ event this fall, will be donated to support local cancer care in our community,” said Silva.
Those that enter their cars as competitors in shows like Steinbach’s are generally well-known to each other, and they see one another multiple times in “the circuit” that makes its way around the province and its many summertime festivals. But despite that tradition and familiarity, things are changing within the car enthusiast community.
“What I’m seeing trending more and more every year is vehicle popularity is shifting. As enthusiasts get older trends change. Ten or 15 years ago you would see many more 1930-1950s cars, but as that generation is downsizing those vehicles are starting to dwindle at the shows.
“The ever so popular muscle car era made a fantastic showing again (this year) but what I noticed is the ‘80 to ’90s vehicles are starting to make their presence known. There were ‘80s fox body Mustangs, G-Body GM cars, third generation Camaros, ‘90s GM trucks in higher numbers than previous years. This is a trend we will be seeing grow in the next several years as that generation has a connection to the ‘80s to ‘90s vehicles. Myself included,” said Bouchard.
The changing nature of those bringing their cars out for display bares true as you talk to the various owners that are awaiting the judges’ inspections. Fred Hasey is a case in point as he relaxes with his son and grandson behind his 1960 Dodge Dart Pioneer; a car that he has put up for sale.
“I just can’t love the car like it deserves to be anymore, and my next generation here just can’t afford it. We’re running out of kilometers,” says Hasey sipping on his root beer.
“Never mind just polishing this baby, if I got a flat tire out there rollin’ around in this one … I can’t even bend over to check the air pressure on the tires much less change it. I’m comin’ up on 80 and it’s time to let someone else enjoy the circuit. I’ll always love the car, but it’s time to let it go to someone younger and who still has a good back,” said Hasey.
Cars like Hasey’s are ready for entry straight into the shows and car clubs that are all around the province, but for owners that still means there is a lot of care and maintenance that has to go into keeping the heritage machines competitive. Especially considering that most are roadworthy and drivable cars, even if special insurance is usually an added expense.
Al Boyd and his son stand beside their deep burgundy 1966 Pontiac GTO, and note the expense of gas and insurance, to say nothing of time in keeping their car both road and show worthy.
“We bought the car from a fella sight unseen who got it from an auction in the States and shipped it up into Manitoba. He couldn’t get it safetied and he just about gave up on it until we found it. There was so much dirt and dust on it we couldn’t even tell what colour it was … it took over a year to rebuild, but now it gets driven,” Boyd said.
The show features 18 different categories of competition, from best Ford to best interior and best cruiser bike, but members of the hosting club never judge their own vehicles to keep things fair and transparent.
While making his rounds of the entries, Judge Bouchard said he’s looking for any kind of defect.
“Stuff like trim that’s misaligned or paint bridging … if there is any ‘orange peel’ on the finish or if the seats are cracked or dry rotting. Stuff like that. The smallest thing can really set you apart from winning and not winning.”
But for owners and enthusiasts, there is always something to tweak, another show to drive to, and another chance for showroom redemption in the competitions within the classic car community. The work and effort creates a fraternity that thrives on community engagement.
“Our club members enjoy supporting other community initiatives. On Aug. 13, we will be moving our regular Wednesday Night Cruise to Thursday to support Dairy Queen’s annual Miracle Treat Day. We’ll be hosting a special classic car show that evening to help promote the event and raise awareness for Children’s Miracle Network,” says Silva.