2005 Detroit Autorama Extreme Pick Awards
The basement rises to the occasion
The "kool" spot at this years Autorama is clearly the basement--`cause that's where it's happening. Sure up top has literally hundreds of cars and motorcycles and high profile is the catchword of the day but it's the basement if you want a change of pace, were less is more and creativity is running rampant.
This is the first year that the "basement dwellers" (formerly known as Rat Rods) were welcomed into the fold--although they probably don't give a rat's a- -! Recognizing their efforts were luminaries from the industry far and wide: Editor Brennan from Street Rodder had his pick a very "right" looking Model A highboy coupe belonging to Bruce Henderson; Chip Foose and Troy Trepanier both selected a very kool '46 Chevy pickup owned by Bob Stargis; and Bobby Alloway picked a straight axle '55 that was straight from the streets of the `60s. Other industries types such as George Barris, Chuck Miller, Courtney Hansen (of Overhaulin' fame), Bill Hines, A-Brothers, Jimmy Shine, and Ol' Skol Rodz.
Next year all are hoping the basement dwellers will be back in even larger numbers.
By Brian Brennan
Photos by Nick Licata & Brian Brennan
Wetergaard custom and it's the real deal
Harry Westergaard is clearly one of the many talented heroes from late `40's and early `50's. His style was and still is recognizable by custom car aficionados. Harry's very own 1940 custom Mercury is on hand for young and old rodders alike to thoroughly enjoy.
Harry's '40 started its custom life as a brand new vehicle straight from a Sacramento auto dealership. It was literally a matter of several months time and the chopped and channeled Merc was ready for the show circuit.
The car was found after a lengthy absence from the car culture scene after 30 years in a barn. Westergaard died April 26, 1956 in a high-speed single car accident while driving his T-Bird home from Walnut Grove. Harry can never be replaced. He lived in a time when men like him could change the world. His craftsmanship and talent are often imitated but rarely duplicated. His influence can be seen in cars from the Barris brothers, Joe Bailon, the Alexander Brothers and even many modern day customs.
Brian Bennan
Photos by Nick Licata & Brian Brennan
With so much to do at this year's Detroit Autorama, it really takes some time to take in all this event has to offer.
Downstairs in the basement 2004 NHRA Top Fuel Champ Tony (The Sarge) Schumacher was signing autographs for a lengthy line of his fans while Shirley Muldowney held court upstairs to over a thousand of her fans. With three NHRA titles and 16 National event wins Shirley became one of drag racing's most popular and respected drivers - male or female -- in the world of drag racing.
While classic cars are the main focus here, the Autorama has something for every auto enthusiast, from Pro Street-style drag cars and front-engine Top Fuel dragsters to late-model sport compact cars. It's all here.
Check back often as we'll be the first to announce the winner of the famed Ridler Award.
NL
Photos by Nick Licata
The 53rd Detroit Autorama was everything it should be and more. The competition for the Don Ridler Memorial Award was "stiff" indeed and some will tell you that the bar has been raised--again. From its humble beginnings in '51 in the basement of Cobo Hall, from 100,000 sq. ft. to 700,000 sq. ft. today, 1,100 booths and 900-plus cars and motorcycles make this year's "Detroit" the show of the year--and maybe "the" show.
You have patiently logged-on each day to see our daily updates and we promised you several days ago that we would bring to you the very first news on the Ridler winner and we are going to make good on our promise.
Ken Reister of Littleton, Colorado with his Chip Foose designed and built 1936 Ford roadster proved to much for the competition and, hence, was awarded the 2005 Don Ridler Memorial Award for the shows best vehicle, first time shown. Congratulations are in order for Ken, Chip and the rest of the crew that brought this outstanding roadster to "life."
By Brian Brennan