Pam Wright
Sarnia’s Rutherglen Close is about to be invaded for an eighth time.
Sept. 17 marks the return of Invade the Close Car Show, a truly community event showcasing cars of the world.
The number of vehicles is expected to increase to about 250 this year, said organizer Dan Moore.
“There are lots of beautiful cars in this city. We invite all cars to come out.”
Invade the Close is a collective effort. Rutherglen is an oval street that surrounds a park off Lakeshore, and the residents there unanimously agree to provide their property for the event.
“Neighbours let me use their front yards,” Moore said. “You don’t find too many neighbourhoods in the city as accommodating as that.”
What’s more, the ‘best’ cars receive Neighbours’ Choice Awards as selected by the folks who live on Rutherglen Close, rather than technically focused ‘gear heads.’
The viewing area is divided in two, with sports and European cars shown on one side and North American vehicles on the other.
Those expected for show include a 1953’ Corvette valued at $300,000 (only 300 were manufactured with only three coming to Canada), a BMW I8 worth $200,000, and a 1953 Jaguar XK120.
Sponsor J’s Performance, a LaSalle Line business specializing in classic cars, is donating a $1,500 stainless steel exhaust system as one of the prizes.
The show is organized by the Bluewater Austin Healey Club and Canadian Classic Iron Club, with proceeds going to Sarnia’s Salvation Army, Moore said.
More than $4,000 was raised for charity last year, and $15,000 since the car show’s inception.