And the winner is …
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Story by Wallace Garson • Photography by: Rick Kowalczykowski & Peter Robinson.
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peedorama’s 2007 “Dean” award was whisked to Guelph, Ontario, under the control of Richard Ruiter. Richard is the proud owner/builder of the amazing XVette, 1955 Chevrolet convertible that we featured in our August 2006 issue. “The Dean” is Canada’s most valuable car show trophy, awarded to the vehicle chosen by a group of experienced judges as the car that represents the best in creativity, construction quality, fit, finish, and overall appeal. This year’s choice was extremely difficult with a number of top quality entrants vyying for the honour.
Since debuting his sensational project in the spring of 2006, Richard has been recognized as an extraordinary builder. Xvette was “The Car of the Show” at the Super Chevy event in Milan, Michigan, and was chosen the “Goodguys Custom Rod of the Year” for 2006. 2007 started with a bang, when Richard and the Xvette received “The Dean” on Jan 28. Becoming the second Canadian to win the award that honours the “Dizzy” Dean Murray’s contributions to the Canadian car scene, was made even more satisfying when the $9,000 cash changed hands.
Pictured at right is Gary Wallace “The Big Kahuna” fanning out $9,000 in cash for the winner of “The Dean.” Congratulations to Richard, his sons, and all the people that helped make the Xvette a champion.
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See for det Gary with Richard Ruiter, owner and builder of the Xvette. Richard can’t make up his mind — should he hold onto the award or the cash?
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1249 Xvette with its full car show display.
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