Revving Up for the Central Coast British Car Club's Automotive Extravaganza

The Channel Islands Harbor was abuzz with the sounds of engines and the chatter of car enthusiasts as the 2024 Central Car Club Show filled Harbor View Park with a dazzling array of unique automobiles. The event, which has been a beloved tradition for over three decades, showcased the passion and dedication of the Central Coast British Car Club and its members.

Celebrating the Timeless Allure of British Automotive Craftsmanship

A Legacy of Automotive Excellence

The Central Coast British Car Club has been a driving force in the local car community for four decades, with its members sharing a deep appreciation for the distinctive charm and performance of British-made vehicles. Under the leadership of President Ted Carlsen, the club has meticulously organized the annual car show, drawing in enthusiasts from near and far to admire the stunning collection of automobiles on display.Carlsen, a proud owner of several British cars himself, including a Jaguar F-Type and a 1963 Morgan, has been instrumental in shaping the event's success. "The car show has been going on for 33 years," he shared, "and we started preparing and planning for this about eight months ago. We have a crew of volunteers, about 40 people, who park cars, get everything set up, and put the show together."

A Celebration of Automotive Diversity

The 2024 Central Car Club Show boasted an impressive lineup of over 170 cars, showcasing the diverse range of British automotive engineering. From the sleek and sporty Jaguar F-Type to the iconic Morgan Roadster, each vehicle on display held a unique story and captivated the attention of the attendees."British cars are unique; there's not many of them around," Carlsen explained. "Most British cars are designed to be sports cars and are designed to experience the open road. The Roadster has no tops on them, and they handle very well. They have small engines, very light cars, and fun on curvy roads."

Connecting with the Automotive Community

The event not only provided a platform for car enthusiasts to admire the stunning vehicles but also fostered a sense of community and camaraderie. Fireball Tom Lawrence, a regular at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum's Wheels and Waves event, expressed his appreciation for the unique stories and personal connections that come with attending such shows."You appreciate cars more when you hear people's stories," Lawrence shared. "You can look at a TR6 or TR3, and they're beautiful cars, but when someone comes up and says you won't believe what happened to me in this car, you appreciate them more. I enjoy talking to people, and Tommy, who I work with, loves British cars; it's making him happy today."

A Harmonious Blend of Automotive Passion and Community

The Central Car Club Show was not just about the cars themselves but also about the people who cherish them. Attendees like Jeff Pfieler and his dog, Jet, found joy in simply strolling through the park and admiring the stunning vehicles, while others, like Bill Atkinson, expressed their appreciation for the diverse array of automobiles on display.Bill Czerwanski, a member of the Ventura County Cruising Club, brought his 1959 Morris Miner Traveler to the show, sharing his long-standing love for the unique British marque. "I used to work at a British Auto Parts store; a guy would come in with a Morris Minor. They were different; I liked them; I like everything different," he reminisced.The event's success was also evident in the presence of Eric Oltmann, who had just undergone a knee replacement but still made the effort to showcase his wife's prized 1953 Jaguar, a car they had owned for over 45 years. "This was never meant to be a show car; this was her daily driver," Oltmann explained, highlighting the personal connection and history behind the vehicle.As the sun set on another successful Central Car Club Show, the sense of community, passion, and appreciation for British automotive craftsmanship lingered in the air, setting the stage for the club's upcoming 40th-anniversary celebration. The event had once again proven to be a testament to the enduring allure of these iconic machines and the dedicated enthusiasts who keep their legacy alive.

Wheels, Wings, and Wonders: A Captivating Celebration of Automotive and Aviation Enthusiasts

On a picturesque September day, the Pacific Coast Air Museum (PCAM) in Santa Rosa, California, played host to a remarkable event that captivated the hearts of automotive and aviation enthusiasts alike. The 2024 Wheels and Wings Car Show, a celebration of the museum's 35th anniversary, showcased a stunning array of classic cars and trucks alongside the museum's impressive collection of vintage aircraft.

Unveiling the Automotive and Aerial Marvels at the Wheels and Wings Car Show

A Showcase of Automotive Masterpieces

The Wheels and Wings Car Show was a true feast for the senses, with over 200 meticulously restored classic cars and trucks on display. Each vehicle told a unique story, and the car owners were eager to share their passion and the history behind their prized possessions. From a gleaming 1956 Ford F100 pickup to a stunning 1967 Chevy Camaro RS SS, the event was a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship of automotive enthusiasts. Visitors were captivated by the attention to detail and the stories that unfolded as they explored the diverse array of classic vehicles.

Vintage Aircraft Take Center Stage

Complementing the automotive showcase, the PCAM's impressive collection of 30-plus vintage American military, propeller, and jet aircraft took center stage. Visitors were awestruck by the sheer power and historical significance of these aerial marvels. The Sikorsky H-34 Choctaw Helicopter, with its maximum speed of 123 mph and a range of 190 miles, was a testament to the ingenuity of its designers. The Bell UH-1H Iroquois "Huey," with its maximum speed of 127 mph and a range of 318 miles, was a familiar sight to many, having played a crucial role in the Vietnam War. The crown jewel of the collection, the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18A Hornet fighter jet, boasted a maximum speed of 1,381 mph (Mach 1.8) and a range of 1,253 miles, showcasing the remarkable advancements in aviation technology.

Celebrating Community, Honoring Veterans, and Inspiring the Next Generation

The Wheels and Wings Car Show was more than just a display of automotive and aviation marvels; it was a celebration of community, a tribute to veterans, and an inspiration for the next generation. PCAM President Dana Hunt eloquently captured the essence of the event, stating, "The way the PCAM gives back to the community, the way it honors veterans, and inspires kids and adults to fulfill their dreams and meet their goals is truly something special."The event's grand prize drawing, which offered private rides on a P-51 Mustang, a T-28 Trojan, and a Waco, further fueled the excitement and enthusiasm of the attendees. The raffle prizes, food and drink, and the museum's gift shop souvenirs added to the festive atmosphere, creating an unforgettable experience for all who attended.

A Record-Breaking Celebration of Automotive and Aviation Passion

The Wheels and Wings Car Show was a resounding success, with PCAM's Car Show Coordinator and former president, Chris Brown, revealing that the event set an all-time record for attendance. The People's Choice Award for Best of Show was presented to a stunning 1947 International KB2 Truck, further highlighting the diverse and impressive array of vehicles on display.The Wheels and Wings Car Show was a testament to the enduring passion and dedication of automotive and aviation enthusiasts. It was a celebration of the past, a showcase of the present, and a glimpse into the future of these captivating industries. As the PCAM continues to honor its 35-year legacy, this event stands as a shining example of the museum's commitment to preserving and sharing the rich history of these remarkable machines.