2,000 High School Students See the Show
The 54th Annual Detroit Autorama began this morning with a bang even before the doors. In a first ever Education Day presented by the International Show Car Association, Championship Auto Shows and Michigan Hot Rod Association as each organization joined forces to create this unique effort to reach out to students (nearly 2,000) and introduce them to the world of hot rods and car shows.
The students received a three-day pass for $15, allowed them early into the show and were treated to "tall tales" and stories from several of the popular builders of the day. Chip Foose (Foose Design) a well-known automotive designer, builder, and star of the popular television series "Overhaulin'" captured the student's attention with stories from his past and present. Another popular (and young gun builder) was Troy Trepanier (Rad Rides by Troy) who also captured the young hot rodders and told of his early exploits in the industry. Other guest speakers included Roger Gustin, a famous drag racer from earlier years and current producer of the Super Chevy car show series, and Dave McClelland the "voice" of drag racing on network and cable television as well as the current host of "Hot Rod" TV both told great stories of their high school years.
Although we must admit the real hit may have been the thousands, yes thousands of Krispy Kream donuts that were free for the grabbing (none were leftover). Another big hit were the Jeg's baseball caps presented by Andy Hendricks of Jeg's High Performance Parts & Accessories as a memento of the day's activities to each and every participant.
In the future if you are interested in having your students drop by the Detroit Autorama contact Bob Millard at (248-371-1600). Continue to tune-in to www.streetwrodderweb.com for updates during the remainder of the show as you will see it here first including what's at the show, the Great 8, and the ultimate winner of the prized Don Ridler Memorial Award presented to the outstanding car in the show from the Great 8 finalists on Sunday afternoon.
| Friday | Saturday | Sunday |