Troy Shantz
A quiet north-end neighbourhood of Sarnia will echo with the rumble of hot rods in a few weeks and there won’t be a single noise complaint.
The “Invade The Close” Car Show returns for its 11th year on Sept. 21 with 300 classic and custom cars and motorcycles expected to converge on Rutherglen Close.
“It’s just a fun day,” said founder and organizer Dan Moore. “It’s hard to believe how many people there are.”
The ‘Close’ is a residential street that runs between Lakeshore Road and Cathcart Boulevard in the shape of a long oval, with a grassy island in the middle.
That would be perfect for a car show, Moore thought. He got all the neighbours on board, who offer up their front lawns to showcase the entries, and it’s been an annual event ever since.
Six trophies are handed out for the most appreciated British and European makes, and classics and customs, voted by the residents, Moore said.
A draw and door prizes are available, including a $1,500 exhaust system from the J’s Performance and Customizing, the event’s sponsor from its inception.
Sarnia participant Bruce Scott plans to show off his restored 1953 Jaguar XK120 convertible.
“It was the fastest production sports car in the world until the Corvette came out,” said Scott, who noted other owners of the sexy car included Clark Gable and Marilyn Monroe.
“They only made 9,000” and it’s estimated 2,000 remain, he said.
Kevin Moore, Dan Moore’s son, plans to show his 1961 Chevrolet Brookwood, an entry-level station wagon that’s become a favourite among hot-rod enthusiasts.
“They only made it for one year,” he said. “A lot of the older guys are really impressed to see one.”
Twenty-four cars showed up the first year and it’s grown steadily ever since, raising more than $50,000 for the Salvation Army.
“We’re just a friendly little car show but we’re trying to raise money and bring awareness that the Salvation Army is still here and been here for 137 years,” Dan Moore said.
Lieutenant Brian Webster said the money helps Sarnians in need through programs that include housing assistance, rental assistance and a food bank.
IF YOU GO:
WHAT: J’s Performance ‘Invade The Close’ Car Show
WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 21, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
WHERE: Rutherglen Close, which runs north off Cathcart, between Murphy and Modeland roads.
TICKETS: All welcome, admission is free, $10 to register a vehicle.