Whether you’re into vintage town cars, classic muscle, chopped-up rat rods or 21st century speed, there was a place for just about everyone at the pair of car shows, one in Coombs and one in Parksville, this past weekend.
Car lovers of all sorts, many from the Parksville Qualicum Beach area, but also many others from the Island and further afield, gathered in the baking sun to take in the glory of chromed metal and pristine paint jobs (which no doubt only added to the heat).
And while many people may not appreciate the noise some of these beasts of the road can produce, or the exhaust they create, one can still marvel at the moving sculptures on wheels, as well as the ability for such a diverse range of motor heads to come together at events, appreciate each other’s rides and learn from each other.
The Parksville Qualicum Beach area being a popular place to retire no doubt contributes to its significant car culture, making shows such as this past weekend’s Ocean Idlers Blast from the Past show and Van Isle Shriners cruise and show and shine popular stops for those with a ride of their own to show off, as well as for those in the market.
And you can’t forget the Seaside Cruizers’ Father’s Day Show and Shine which takes over the streets of Qualicum Beach for a day with a cruise of its own leading up to the event.
One man at the Blast from the Past show suggested there could be hundreds of classic cars in the area that don’t make it out of garages anymore, but ripe for someone with the right connections and know-how to take it on and restore it.
But these shows aren’t just for older folks with time and/or money, nor are they just for classic cars — souped up imports and heavily modified North American models had a place as well. One 1995 Chevy even had a set of red skulls for a dashboard and a samurai sword handle for a stick shift.
The shows clearly represent a myriad of styles and tastes when it comes to cars, but differing feelings on what makes a cool ride doesn’t stop many enthusiasts from asking about the work owners have done to their vehicles, where the interest in that particular model comes from, or sharing stories, restoration methods and much more.
Whether you’re pushing for a future of electric vehicles, transit via bike or not, there’s something to be learned from the inclusivity on display.
— Parksville Qualicum Beach News