California Hot Rod Reunion (Oct. 15-17)
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CALIFORNIA HOT ROD
REUNION VIII

HIGHLIGHTS WILL INCLUDE:

REMINISCING — As always, the focal point of the Reunion. The big tent known as Reunion Central is a great place to escape the hot October sun, renew acquaintances, bench race, and make new friends. Inside, plenty of memorabilia will be on display, the Leslie Lovett Memorial Photo Contest will feature some of the all-time greatest images ever captured on film, and Ron Main will be showing those wild ’50s and ’60s hot rod movies and vintage racing films. A stroll down Memory Lane is sure to get the old heart beating a little faster — you may even be reunited with that favorite old race car you thought was long gone. Whether it’s a classic circle-track machine just unearthed from an old barn or a concours-condition restored factory Super Stocker, it may be among the magnificent collection of cars that you’ll find together nowhere else but the California Hot Rod Reunion. If you want to show off your old sprint car, lakester, dragster, or anything in between, bring it along and we’ll find a place for it on Memory Lane.

The Justice Brothers Car Care Products Reunion Spotlight will shine on the Road Kings of Burbank, perhaps drag racing’s all-time best-known car club. Such greats as Tommy Ivo, Don Prudhomme, Kenny Safford, Bob Muravez, Roy Fjastad, Don Gaide, Don Johnson, and many others began their careers as members of the Road Kings. Many of the original members and their cars will be on hand to share the spotlight with displays of memorabilia and current members’ hot rods.

RACING — Although the Reunion is more than a race, there will be plenty of action on the historic Famoso quarter-mile to hold your excitement. Eliminations will be held in Top Fuel, A/Fuel (for blown alcohol and unblown nitro dragsters), Jr. Fuel, and AA/Gas Supercharged categories. You’ll also see Fuel Altereds, roadsters, coupes, gassers and stockers in exhibition and side-by-side action.

RECEPTION — The Friday night California Hot Rod Reception has become a major event in itself. Held in the DoubleTree ballroom, it’s a low-key, no-host affair that’s open to everyone. Grand Marshal Rich Guasco and Reunion Honorees past and present will be on hand to meet and greet friends and fans. As a bonus, the parking lot in front of the DoubleTree has become one of the greatest nighttime car shows you’ll ever see!

CRUISING — Saturday’s activities at the strip will close with the track cruise. Some of the finest street rods and customs anywhere will be on hand. Plus, a tremendous variety of old race cars will be pushed, towed, or driven in front of the grandstands to create a fantastic moving car show you won’t want to miss. Last year’s move to October dates made for better weather, more daylight, and a tremendous turnout of hot rods. This year’s cruise promises to be the perfect ending to a perfect day. Participation is easy. Just listen for announcements near the end of the day telling where and when to assemble at the top end of the track.

BARBECUE — It’s called the Pit Pass Barbecue because you’ll need your pit pass (credential) to get in. The popular tri-tip will be served from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday in the Reunion Central tent. While in line, you can take a peek at what some of the fine manufacturers and vendors have to offer, or simply enjoy bench racing with your buddies. But you’ll have to make it quick because the lines move fast.

SHOPPING — If the Reunion inspires you to take on a restoration project or complete the one you’ve already started, the Reunion Swap Meet gives you the opportunity to find the rare parts and pieces you’ll need. Maybe you’ll even find a copy of that rare magazine or program with the picture of your old hot rod on its pages. In addition will be a fine array of manufacturers, vendors, and artists specializing in the nostalgic names and equipment you’ve known all your hot rodding life.

CAMPING — Motorhome camping is available on the east side of the track on a first-come, first-served basis. A $25 camping permit (plus a credential for every person inside) is all you’ll need. Manufacturers, swappers, racers, and vendors may also camp overnight with the purchase and display of a $25 camping permit.

The camping area brings back memories of the early Smoker’s meets, when nearly everyone camped in the pits. Please remember, ground fires are not permitted, dumping is not permitted, and campers and motorhomes must be self-contained. Sorry, but camping is not permitted Sunday night after the Reunion ends.

Free shuttle service will be available to and from the DoubleTree Hotel so you can camp and still share in the fun of the Reception in town.


DON’T FORGET TO PACK: credentials • memorabilia • photo albums • your old car club jacket • cool-weather clothing • warm-weather clothing (Bakersfield can go either way) • sunblock • autograph pens • camera and film • umbrella (to scare away the rain)


For information about what to do and where to stay in Bakersfield, call the Bakersfield Convention and Visitors Bureau, (800) 325-6001, and mention the California Hot Rod Reunion. Last year’s NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race at Mesa Marin Speedway on Reunion weekend caused concern about availability of accommodations. That race date has been moved, but making reservations early is still advised.