Below: 1962 to 64 TV Tommy Ivo First Top Fuel Dragster "The Barnstormer"
This car set multiple World Record's. The Barnstormer was the first car to break the 7 second barrier and first to run 190 mph. It went to England with Garlits in 1964.
Digitally Produced in the United States of America
Contents @ Speed King Magazine All Rights Reserved. Editorial content is the sole property of the Speed King Magazine & Speed King Hot Rods. All information contained in each issue is the sole opinion and comments of the editor. The opinions and comments expressed in this issue do not reflect in any way either written or implied on any of the Advertisers in each issue. No portion of the Speed King Magazine maybe reproduced in any form, without written permission from the publisher. The Speed King Magazine will not be held responsible for any errors in the information submitted or provided.
Contributions / Submissions should be sent via email to speedkinghotrods1@gmail.com or by USPS mail to SPEED KING MAGAZINE
PO Box 254 Thompsons Station TN 37179.
Number5/NOVEMBER2025
Publisher & Editor Jim Brandau
Feature Writers Jim Brandau
Executive Editor Jim Brandau
Art Director-Designer Larry Williams – Williams Graphics
Senior Feature Writer Emeritus: Ed Woodard
Contributions Larry Williams Al Liebmann, Jeff Monchilov, SPEED VETTE SEMA, GOODGUYS,PRI, John Force Racing, Rod Shows, Heidt's, Lions Museum, Triple Crown of Rodding, Petersen Museum, Tommy Ivo Website
Advertising: Contact Jim Brandau for all advertising cost & availabilities at 615-300-2003 8am 5pm CST or at speedkinghotrods1@gmail.com
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SPEED KING MAGAZINE is published bi-monthly by Speed King Hot Rods, PO Box 254 Thompsons Station TN 37179. Phone 615-300-2003
On The Covers:
Front: Tom Prufer Hot Rods on Display at The Gathering At The ROC #6 Photo by Jim Brandau
Back: GATR #6 Reliability Run Stop at Pawhuska OK Photo by Jim Brandau
“StarterButton”
Greetings Everyone!
Have to tell you, I am still amp’d up after attending The Gathering At The ROC for the first time back in October. Hard to believe its almost a month ago as I write this column.
It was amazing the number of calls I got about attending the event and what did I think. Calls came from both people who have been before and many that haven't been but want to go.
You Need To Go To This One folks!! Hands down a TOP 3 event that I have ever attended and I have been to more then a few!
Let me warn you though, if you don’t like a traditional hot rod show...don't go. An even bigger deal breaker for some would be that you NEED TO DRIVE your car at this event! Yes...DRIVE IT!
For me, this was one of the coolest things to see, all those hot rods & custom cars driving through Bartlesville OK and across the Oklahoma countryside.
In my opinion, the best part of the event besides the laid back vibe and
super friendly people was the fact that everyone had to drive their car. Seeing multiple high end builds, that have won major awards, rolling into the host hotel or one of the towns on the Reliability Run or rolling through the buffalo herd at the WOOLAROC PRESERVE...AWESOME!
My hat is off to the folks that put on this event. They have put together an event that is so much fun. From making it easy to check in( if you were one of the lucky ones registered) to having a cool place & town to hang out in along with a perfect place for the Saturday show, the have it nailed.
Wish we had more room for coverage, as we have a whole lot of pics we didn't use.
Switching gears, since this is our last issue for this year, I want to take time to wish everyone a VERY HAPPY Thanksgiving holiday and have a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS & A HAPPY NEW YEAR too.
This time of year we reflect and give thanks and I am thankful for all of you...
HOT ROD HISTORY
2026 will see the NHRA celebrate its 75th Anniversary. The NHRA was founded in 1951 by Wally Parks, a car enthusiast and editor of HotRodmagazine, with the goal of promoting safe and organized drag racing. During the post–World War II era, hot rodding had exploded in popularity, but many racers were running dangerous, illegal street races. Parks sought to bring these adrenaline-fueled competitions into a controlled, professional environment where speed could be celebrated responsibly.
The first official NHRA event took place in 1953 at the Los Angeles County Fairgrounds in Pomona, California a location that remains home to the NHRA Winternationals today. The association quickly grew, establishing standardized rules, safety regulations, and timing systems that helped legitimize drag racing as a major motorsport.
By the 1960s and 1970s, NHRA had become the premier drag racing organization in the world, with professional categories like Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock, and Pro Stock Motorcycle drawing massive crowds and sponsorships. Legendary drivers such as Don Garlits, Shirley Muldowney, and John Force helped shape the sport’s identity and expand its fan base.
Today, the NHRA continues to lead global drag racing, blending innovation, tradition, and safety in one of the most thrilling motorsports ever created.
Brittany Force Steps Away from Full-Time NHRA Top Fuel Competition at End of Season
Brittany Force, part of the legacy of John Force family racers, is following her sisters in planning to start a family with her husband Bobby. Married just a few short months ago, Force, who holds both ends of NHRA’s track records in the Mission Foods Drag Racing Series Top Fuel competition, has been racing professionally since 2013. She has a pair of dragster championship titles to go with her nine of 10 speeds over 340mph in NHRA Top Fuel pro racing.
Brittany’s hiatus from Top Fuel racing comes as little surprise, since her sisters did the same thing. Older sister Ashley Force Hood raced competitively in Funny Car from 2007 through the 2011 season, when she left the sport to give birth to her two sons with husband Danny Hood, who is John Force’s and, now, Jack Beckman’s Funny Car crew chief. Ashley Force Hood was the first woman to earn a Wally winner’s trophy in the pro Funny Car ranks.
In 2017 Force went to the top of the class, taking her first Top Fuel championship and becoming the first woman racer to do so since legendary three-time champ Shirley Muldowney became the 1982 champion. Force’s second title came in 2022; she has 18 Top Fuel wins in 39 final round appearances, but nothing and nobody is close to her legendary 56 No. 1 qualifiers in the Top Fuel class over these past 13 seasons.
“After dedicating the last 13 years of my life to the NHRA and to John Force Racing,” she said, “I have made the difficult and bittersweet decision to step out of the seat of my Top Fuel dragster at the end of the season to try to start a family with my husband Bobby.
As anyone would expect, “I’m really proud of Brittany and all she has accomplished throughout her career,” said her father and team owner John Force. “She’s won races, set countless records and captured two World Championships; her presence in this sport will be greatly missed. Although she’s stepping out the seat at the end of the year, her focus is still firmly set on winning the championship and ending this season strong for all her sponsors.”
Force owns the quickest run in NHRA Top Fuel racing at 3.623 seconds, set on the 1,000foot Maple Grove Raceway dragstrip in September of 2019. She set the fastest run, at 343.51-mph at the Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park strip, during the 71st Cornwell Quality Tools U.S. Nationals.
The future for Brittany Force’s Top Fuel team has not been disclosed at this time, but the team indicated those plans will be disclosed in the coming weeks.
Mario Andretti To Help Kick Off the 2025 PRI Show in December
Motorsports icon Mario Andretti will be the featured guest at the 2025 Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Show Grand Opening Breakfast, a tradition that officially kicks off the world’s largest gathering of motorsports professionals, event organizers stated in a press release. The breakfast takes place on Thursday, Dec. 11, at the Indiana Convention Center. Andretti will join motorsports broadcaster Ralph Sheheen for a Q&A session that is promising to inspire and energize the industry. Andretti’s attendance is made possible by The MagnaFlow Group.
“The Grand Opening Breakfast is more than a welcome; it’s our launchpad,” said PRI president Michael Good. “Mario is not only one of the most iconic and accomplished drivers in motorsports history, but he also embodies the passion, innovation and competitive spirit that our industry thrives on. His story will inspire everyone in the room as we kick off the PRI Show.”
Andretti’s Success
Goes Far Beyond the Track
From winning the Formula One World Championship in 1978 and the IndyCar National Championship four times, to capturing victories at the Indianapolis 500, Daytona 500, the 12 Hours of Sebring and the 24 Hours of LeMans, Andretti’s name is etched into the history of nearly every major motorsports discipline. Beyond the track, he has turned his competitive spirit into successful business ventures.
“I’ve spent my life chasing speed and pushing boundaries,” said Andretti. “The PRI Show is where the future of racing is shaped, and I’m honored to help officially kick it off surrounded by the very heartbeat of the industry.”
Racing’s Entrepreneurial Spirit Has a Major Impact on the U.S. Economy
Racing fuels economic growth in communities nationwide, as highlighted by the recent PRI Motorsports Economic Impact Study. This report shows that the motorsports industry generates over $69.2 billion annually for the U.S. economy, sustains more than 318,000 jobs and accounts for $22.1 billion in wages and benefits.
“Mario Andretti’s journey mirrors the entrepreneurial spirit we see across the PRI Show floor, from startups to legacy brands,” said PRI Show director Karin Davidson. “His perspective connects with our community in a way that’s deeply personal and professionally meaningful.”
“With MagnaFlow’s heritage in race exhaust and now Camburg’s expertise in race suspension, The MagnaFlow Group is proud to have Mario represent us at PRI and speak to the racing community,” said Richard Waitas, spokesperson for The MagnaFlow Group. “His legacy of performance and precision mirrors our commitment to empowering racers and builders at every level.”
Hit the Road with Goodguys in 2026!
Goodguys Rod & Custom Association Announces their 2026 Season Event Schedule!
Goodguys Rod & Custom Association, the world’s largest hot-rodding association, has released their 2026 Season Event Schedule! Goodguys will travel across the country to produce 15 of “America’s Favorite Car Shows” at many of the same premium venues and markets as their previous season along with a couple new locations!
Goodguys will kick-off their 43rd season with three events in March starting in Fort Worth, Texas, with the 16th LMC Truck Spring Lone Star Nationals March 6 & 7, at Texas Motor Speedway. The following weekend brings a new two-day format to the 16th Spring Nationals at the sprawling WestWorld of Scottsdale in Arizona. The month wraps up March 28 & 29 in Pleasanton, California, with the 42nd All American Get-Together.
April will host two popular Goodguys events bringing Cool Cars, Cool People and Good Times to both coasts starting with the 25th Del Mar Nationals in southern California, followed by the 11th North Carolina Nationals in Raleigh. May delivers a move away from the Nashville Superspeedway in Lebanon, Tennessee, with a new era of Goodguys Good Times beginning with the inaugural BASF “Legends of Hot Rodding” event, May 15 & 16 at the newly renovated Nashville Fairgrounds in downtown Nashville. This premium, members-only event will honor the legendary vehicles and people that have made our industry what it is today. Open to vehicles ’64 and older, participants will enjoy two full days of unique features, including live music from up-and -coming Nashville artists, outdoor covered and uncovered show and shine options, an indoor car show with all-new major industry awards, nightly parking lot parties, and of course, the 2026 TANKS, Inc. Hot Rod of the Year competition. More details on this exciting new event will be announced in the coming weeks. While Goodguys enjoyed two terrific years at the Monster Mile in Dover, Delaware, with the Mid-Atlantic Nationals, the event unfortunately has come to an end. A search is already underway by Goodguys to find a new venue in the Northeast region. Speaking of new venues, Goodguys will add another big event to southeast hot rodding scene with the 26th Southeastern Nationals. This two-day national event, held June 12 & 13, will take place at the terrific Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agriculture Center in Perry, just south of Macon. Goodguys popular three-event summer swing commences on the 4th of July weekend in Des Moines for the 35th Speedway Motors Heartland Nationals. The following weekend it’s on to Columbus, Ohio, for the 28th Summit Racing Nationals. Columbus also is where Goodguys gives away its 2026 Grand Prize ’40 Ford Coupe built by Roseville Rod & Custom and selects two of our “Top 12 of the Year” awards; the 2026 Street Machine and Classic Instruments Street Rod of the year. To close out July, Goodguys heads to Washington state July 24 –26 for the 38th Pacific Northwest Nationals. Even as the summer winds down, Goodguys continues to turn up the heat starting with their 39th West Coast Nationals, the “Crown Jewel” of their west coast events. Next, it’s back to the Rockies for the 28th Colorado Nationals, and then down to Texas one more time with the 33rd Lone Star Nationals with a new two-day format on September 25 & 26. The Goodguys 43rd season wraps up in November with their 36th Autumn Get-Together in Pleasanton followed by the grand finale in Scottsdale, Arizona, for the 29th Southwest Nationals. This event delivers an exclusive gathering of all the Goodguys 2026 Top 12 of the Year winners along with the final autocross shootout competition of the season to see who is crowned the King of the Desert! For 2026, Goodguys welcomes specialty vehicles built in 1999 and older into the shows (unless otherwise noted) and on Sunday at all 3-day National events, all years and models of American-made or American-powered vehicles are welcome to join the fun as part of All American Sunday.
For more info and to register for your favorite event go to https://good-guys.com/ events/2026-events
GRAND NATIONAL TRUCK SHOW CROWNS WORLD'S MOST BEAUTIFUL TRUCK
The 3rd annual O’Reilly Auto Parts Grand National Truck Show, presented by Classic Truck Performance magazine, hosted more than 400 trucks, vans and SUVs at the Fairplex in Pomona on September 26-27. Rod Shows, known for producing the West Coast’s largest and longest-running hot rod shows, closed out the weekend by presenting awards in more than 65 judged classes.
The World’s Most Beautiful Truck Award, sponsored by ARP Fasteners, was presented to Larry Jacinto’s 1941 Willys pickup built by Veazie Bros. Fabrication. The spectacular blue Willys was a passion project for Jacinto, who remembers riding in the bed of the truck as young boy. Originally owned by family friend, Fred Peake, Jacinto was finally able to purchase the truck more than four decades later. Legendary builder Bob Bauder started the build and played a significant role in establishing the truck’s stance and maintaining its original shape. Veazie Bros. eventually took over the truck after Bauder’s passing in 2017.
The immaculately finished engine compartment houses a blown and injected LS3 motor topped with a polished 6-71 Littlefield blower. The elegantly altered body, which features a fully custom ’46 Chevy truck bed and tailgate, is finished in deep blue by Mick’s Paint. The Ron Mangus interior boasts a modified original dash, including Classic Instruments OEstyle gauges, and leather bench seat. Jacinto beat out a field of 10 other custom trucks, which included five Chevy C-10s ranging from 1967-1985, three Ford F100s and a 1976 Blazer, to claim the $12,500 prize and a custom trophy presented by ARP Fasteners.
“This weekend is special because it brings together amazing trucks, SUVs and vans of all kinds under one roof,” said John Buck, owner of Rod Shows and producer of the Grand National Truck Show. “From one-off customs to patinas, mini-trucks and more, there isn’t another show where you can see such a variety of trucks, and we’re so thankful to all of the owners who joined us this year.”
The weekend also featured two new awards. Hot rod legend Chip Foose presented the Chip Foose Design Achievement Award to Bob Matranga’s beautiful blue 1968 Chevy C-10. Foose, who called the truck “bitchin’,” awarded Matranga a custom billet pencil trophy.
For more information about the O’Reilly Auto Parts Grand National Truck Show, including the complete list of 2025 award winners and updates on upcoming Rod Shows events, please visit www.rodshows.com/GNTS.
Heidt's & Pure Vision Designs To Debut ‘Haraka’ 1970 Roadrunner at 2025 SEMA Show
Heidt’s, a manufacturer of high-performance suspension systems, announced its collaboration with Pure Vision Designs on a custom build for the 2025 SEMA Show. The 1970 Plymouth Roadrunner “Haraka” highlights Pure Vision’s meticulous eye for detail alongside Heidt's’ new IFS & IRS systems for B-body Mopar models, company officials stated in a press release.
“Haraka” began life as a factory Plum Crazy Purple 1970 Roadrunner, later reimagined with personal touches to create a capable and reliable cruiser built with attention to every detail, noted the release. Like many of Pure Vision Design’s projects, this Roadrunner is a themed build, reflecting the owner’s passion for high-end fashion and luxury watches. Inside, the car incorporates elements from late 1960s and early 1970s Mopar models, blending the best of the era while drawing the eye to its standout feature a timepiece-inspired instrument cluster, officials said.
Power comes from a Chrysler 440 engine, along with a MoTeC EFI, TKX 5-speed and Wilwood brakes. Inside, the 18-way Porsche Panamera seats are draped in custom leather that has been laser-printed with a Victorian-style design inspired by a Robert Graham dress shirt.
Pure Vision Has Been Showcasing Custom Builds at SEMA Show for Over a Decade Pure Vision’s owner, Steve Strope, competed in the inaugural Battle of the Builders at SEMA back in 2014. Since then, his name has been a fixture at the show, with custom builds crafted for a range of high-profile hot rod enthusiasts and collectors. This year, alongside the debut of “Haraka,” Strope and his team will also unveil a Pontiac GTO.
“We’re so excited to be working with Steve and his team on this reveal for SEMA 2025. Our new PRO-G IFS & IRS systems for Chrysler B-bodies offer a track-capable package with a smooth enough ride for street-focused builds like ‘Haraka,’ said Scott Diedrich, marketing manager at Heidt's. “People often associate Heidt's with our racing-focused kits thanks to our success in the Optima Street Car Series, but our kits also offer comfortable and capable handling for even the Sunday drivers.”
The “Haraka” will debut at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 4, in Heidt's’ booth (#23381) in Central Hall, HOT ROD Alley at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
Petersen Automotive Museum’s First-Ever Aston Martin Exhibit
“Performance and Prestige: A History of Aston Martin” opens Oct. 26 & will feature cars from racing legends like the DBR1 to modern-day hypercars…
The Petersen Automotive Museum, in collaboration with Aston Martin, will debut a new exhibit dedicated to the ultra-luxury British performance brand this fall. Titled “Performance and Prestige: A History of Aston Martin,” the showcase will bring together more than a dozen rare and celebrated vehicles from Aston Martin’s 112-year history, museum officials stated in a press release.
Opening Oct. 26 and running through October 2026 in the museum’s Meyers Gallery, the exhibition will trace the iconic British marque’s evolution from its founding in 1913 to its modern-day position as a leader in performance and luxury, the museum said.
Among the Aston Martin exhibit highlights are:
• 1949 DB2 Prototype: a post-war sports car that competed at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, securing a class podium and paving the way for production of the DB2 series.
• 1961 DB4GT Zagato: one of just 19 lightweight grand tourers designed in collaboration with Zagato.
• 1979 Bulldog: a one-of-a-kind wedge-shaped concept powered by a twin-turbo V-8 and fitted with gullwing doors.
• 2015 Vulcan: a track-only V-12 hypercar, limited to 24 units globally, one for each hour of the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
• 2021 Valkyrie Spider: an open-top hypercar with true F1 performance for the road, with over 1,000 horsepower from a naturally aspirated V-12 powertrain.
The exhibit will also highlight Aston Martin’s return to Formula 1. The AMR23 race car, which achieved eight podium finishes with two-time World Champion Fernando Alonso and teammate Lance Stroll, will be featured, underscoring the brand’s pursuit of excellence at the pinnacle of motorsport, noted the release.
Founded in 1913 by racer Lionel Martin and engineer Robert Bamford, Aston Martin has built a legacy of blending hand-crafted elegance with high performance. From racing legends like the DBR1 to cinematic icons like the DB5, and today’s groundbreaking hypercars, Aston Martin says that it continues to set benchmarks in design, innovation and cultural impact.
“Aston Martin’s legacy is defined by more than a century of heritage, craftsmanship and performance, but by the inspired passion more than a century after its founding,” said Marek Reichman, chief creative officer of Aston Martin Lagonda.
“Aston Martin has such a rich and important history, and we are proud to partner with them for this blockbuster exhibit,” said Terry L. Karges, executive director of the Petersen Automotive Museum. “From its over a century-long history to today’s place on the Formula One grid, this exhibit captures Aston Martin’s relentless pursuit of performance.”
IT’S TIME TO GET REGISTERED FOR THE 2025 PERFORMANCE RACING INDUSTRY SHOW
Registration is now open for the 2025 Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Show, the world’s largest and most influential event for motorsports professionals. Taking place from December 11–13, 2025, at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, this premier trade show will unite thousands of racers, builders, manufacturers, and industry leaders for three days of innovation, education, and business growth.
The 2025 PRI Show will feature more than 1,000 exhibitors showcasing the latest products, tools, and technologies across 750,000-plus square feet of exhibit space. From highperformance race parts and advanced machinery to simulation software, testing equipment, and trailer solutions, the PRI Show offers unmatched access to cutting-edge developments across all forms of racing including drag racing, stock car, dirt late model, sprint car, sports car, and karting.
Beyond the massive show floor, PRI provides an exceptional educational experience through over 45 conferences, seminars, and networking events. Attendees can learn from industry innovators during Race Industry Week, featuring sessions such as the Race Track Business Conference and the ICMS Annual Conference. Social highlights like the PRI Happy Hour and Grand Opening Breakfast create opportunities for connection and collaboration within the racing community.
The PRI Show remains the largest global gathering of motorsports professionals, attracting attendees from all 50 states and more than 70 countries. It’s a one-stop destination to conduct business face-to-face with leading suppliers, discover new technologies, and build valuable relationships that drive the future of racing. Motorsports icon Mario Andretti will be the featured guest at the 2025 PRI Show Grand Opening Breakfast. Andretti will be joined by Ralph Sheheen for an energetic Q&A session during the Grand Opening Breakfast that attendees won’t want to miss.
You can register to attend the PRI Show at https://list.powerautomedia.com
Final Winners Selected for Goodguys 2025 Top 12 of the Year Awards
Goodguys Rod & Custom Association has announced its Top 12 of the Year specialty car and truck winners of 2025, presented by BASF. Six of the cars and trucks were selected from groups of finalists at different Goodguys events throughout the year and across the country, while the other six were selected at specific events.
The Top 12 winners will all be on display during the upcoming Goodguys 28th Speedway Motors Southwest Nationals, Nov. 21–23, in Scottsdale, Arizona. This event will wrap up Goodguys’ 42nd season and is the only event where all Top 12 Winners will be shown together, company officials stated in a press release. The Southwest Nationals brings in over 3,000 different hot rods, classic trucks and specialty vehicles.
• LMC Truck of the Year Early: 1941 Willys, owned by Larry Jacinto, built by Veazie Bros. Fabrication
• Dakota Digital Truck of the Year Late: 1969 Ford F100, owned by Troy Peck, built by Scott’s Hotrods N’ Customs
• Scott’s Hotrods N’ Customs Custom of the Year: 1952 Ford F1, owned by Jimmy Hervatin, built by Kustoms by Jimmy
• Vintage Air Custom Rod of the Year: 1957 Pontiac Safari, owned by Homer and Alice Zamora, built by Kenny’s Rod Shop
• Snap-on Muscle Car of the Year: 1970 Ford Boss 429 Mustang, owned by Brad Brown, restored by East Bay Muscle Cars
• Griot’s Garage Muscle Machine of the Year: 1966 Chevy Nova, owned by Jeremiah Belk, built by Driven Speed Shop
• BASF Goodguys Most Bitchin’: 1932 GMC, owned by Amie Angelo, built by Roseville Rod & Custom
• Classic Instruments Street Rod of the Year: 1936 Ford Roadster, owned by Ross Myers, built by Rad Rides by Troy
• PPG Street Machine of the Year: 1987 Buick Grand National, owned by Angelo Vespi, built by Dutchboys Hotrods
• Tanks, Inc. Hot Rod of the Year: 1933 Willys Coupe, owned by Dave Kroona, built by South City Rod and Custom
• Meguair’s West Coast d’Elegance: 1935 Chevy Coupe, owned by Greg Heinrich, built by Ironworks Speed & Kustom
• Goodguys Trendsetter of the Year: Paul Van Nus of Dutchboys Hotrods
Now Available: Lou Hart's New Book
The History of Lions Drag Strip by Lou Hart is available now at Lions Museum and online. Lions Automobilia Foundation Museum volunteer Lou Hart brings forth this year-by -year illustrated history of Lions Dragstrip’s most memorable events with never-beforeseen images in Lions Drag Strip: 1955–1972!
To order your book today or pick one up at the Lions Museum gift shop or go to https://lionsautomobilia.us4.list-manage.com/track/
TRIPLE CROWN OF RODDING TOP 6
HonoringtheBestoftheBest
Here’s a look at the Top 6 Winners of the 2025 Triple Crown of Rodding. We’ll have complete coverage of the event in n upcoming issue.
Each winner showcases the highest level of artistry and technical mastery, proving that the crown truly belongs to those who go above and beyond in every detail. From jaw-dropping paintwork to meticulously crafted interiors and powerhouse drivetrains, these builds define what it means to be the very best in the hot rod, custom car and truck world.
2025 Triple Crown of Rodding winners
Street Rod of the Year: Ross Meyers for his 1936 Ford.
Street Machine of the Year: Steve Nettleingham for his 1970 Challenger.
Street Cruiser of the Year: Mark Fuque for his 1960 Cadillac Eldorado.
Truck of the Year (Up to 1972): Curt Wittman for his 1955 Chevy Cameo.
Truck of the Year (1973–1987): Frank Walsh for his 1975 Chevy C10.
Truck of the Year (1988–1998): Brian Wojcik for his 1995 Chevy
Words:JimBrandau
Photography:AlLiebmann
The roots of the Syracuse Nationals date back nearly a quarter-century before its 25th anniversary. The event settled into the fairgrounds in Syracuse, New York, and evolved into what organizer's call “the largest car show in the Northeast”, drawing thousands of vehicles and tens of thousands of spectators each summer.
From the early days, the event embraced hot rods, street rods, muscle cars, trucks, customs and more bringing together automobilia enthusiasts from across the U.S. and even Canada. Over the years features such as swap meets, car-corrals, vendor exhibits, celebrity meet-and‐greets, dyno challenges and specialty displays (like Nitro Row and Rat‐Rod alleys) have became staples.
So by the time the 25th edition rolled around this year, the show had a well-established legacy: more than simply an exhibition of cars, it was a cultural moment, a gathering of enthusiasts, families, clubs, vendors and vintage-car pilgrims.
When organizer's announced that the 2025 Syracuse Nationals would mark the 25th anniversary, participant expectations were high and they show delivered! July 18-20 saw the full fairgrounds in action. This occasion was promoted with special effort: a “look back” through the decades of the show, special editions of merchandise, expanded vendor presence and tribute events recalling the show’s history.
On Friday morning when the gates opened, a steady parade of show-cars poured in! Gleaming chrome, polished paint, period-correct restorations, wild customs, and modern interpretations all shared the vast grounds. Clubs from across the region (and beyond) staked out spaces, swapped stories, admired each other’s builds. One could stroll from early-’50s Chevrolet convertibles to tubbed prostreet trucks, from restored muscle classics to “modern muscle” Sunday-only entries.
The soundscape was as rich as the visual – live music stages, rockabilly bands, pin-up contests, drifting and of course NITRO ROW! Indeed the 25th-anniversary edition didn’t just bring cars it brought Saturday morning, the fairgrounds hummed from 8 a.m. to late in the evening. The fairgrounds’ their machines, club banners fluttering. Vendor tents sold restoration parts, rare trim pieces, custom perfect place to find that elusive part or bargain for a project car.
Nearby all this, NITRO ROW roared to life nostalgia dragsters, old time race cars, fire-breathers yes….NITROMETHANE fumes along with warm metal and rubber filled the air to everyones delight! quieter, more refined space where high-end builds were judged for workmanship and artistry. The cation and customization in vehicles from 1937 or later.
Sunday offered “Supercar Sunday” for the show’s modern high-end machines. Families strolled The show emphasized that the show wasn’t just for die-hard gear-heads but for families, for cross
drifting demos, dyno competitions, exhibitions such as the Wall of Death motor-cycle thrill show spectacle and pageant.
fairgrounds’ tree-lined streets were full of polished hoods popped open, owners standing proudly beside custom upholstery, decals, and T-shirts celebrating “25 years”. The swap meet was a treasure-hunt: a
breathers and vehicles built to entertain as much as to be admired. The smell of gasoline, alcohol and
delight! Inside exhibition halls, the Signature Showcase and the legacy award presentations offered a The prestigious Gene Winfield Legacy Award (formerly the Winfield Award) honored radical modifi-
through classic trucks, lowriders, model-car exhibits and even pine-wood-derby races for kids. cross-generational enthusiasts, for kids discovering the magic of classic machines.
Jimmy Hervatin won the 2025 Gene Winfield Legacy Award at the Syracuse Nationals for his 1952 Ford F1 pickup truck. The truck was built by Hervatin and has a distinctive look designed by artist Keith Weesner
Reaching a 25th edition is a milestone signaling longevity, resilience and community. For the Syracuse Nationals team, hitting quarter-century mark shows that this event has become an institution. As one news article put it: “Reaching 25 years is a huge accomplishment, and we couldn’t have done it without the incredible support of our participants, vendors, sponsors, and fans.”
The 25th year also provided a bridge between past and future: acknowledging the early years when the show was smaller, more grassroots, and connecting to the present where thousands of cars and tens of thousands of spectators converge. The event has matured but still retains the core passion: honoring automotive heritage, celebrating custom culture, and building community.
Charity and giving back were woven in: past editions emphasized the show’s philanthropic impact, including auctions, youth displays, and charity partnerships.
Imagine you’re walking along the mid-morning in July. You hear the deep rumble of a V8, and round a corner you find a 1951 Ford convertible, finish so perfect you can see your reflection in the paint. Next to it, a tubbed pro-street Chevy with massive rear tires, ride height modded, blower peeking out the hood. Ahead, a model-car competition is underway kids aged ten and under racing pine-wood derby cars. A few steps farther and there’s a pin-up contest stage, rockabilly band warming up, café booths serving burgers, lemonade, festival food. Vendors shout deals on trim kits and restoration parts; swap-meet aficionados pick through crates marked “GM ’50-’57 trim lots”. Later you go indoors to the expo hall and view the six finalists for the Winfield Award: show-cars so altered and polished they look like art pieces. At dusk you stroll past 8,000 cars in the show field, under lights, owners leaning
NITRO ROW at the Syracuse Nationals gives the participants and spectators a chance to look back at the fire breathing machines that made drag racing what it is today.
casually on hoods, friends making plans for dinner, talk of next-year builds already forming.
Events like the Syracuse Nationals matter for several reasons. First they preserve and promote our automotive history. Cars that might otherwise gather dust or rust get shown, appreciated, swapped, restored. Second they build culture and community: clubs connect, generations share stories, hands-on enthusiasts help one another. Third they provide spectacle and memory: for many families it’s a summertime tradition, a place to bring kids and ignite a passion. Fourth they anchor regional economies: the fairgrounds, vendors, hotels and local businesses all benefit from the influx of visitors. Indeed, reports indicate that in recent years the event draws more than 90,000 spectators.
As the 25th-year celebration wound down with awards in the evening, the show field quieting after sunset, early risers prepping cars for Sunday morning’s final parade it became clear that the future is wide open. The organizers teased new elements: drift shows, lowrider experiences, modern-muscle elite sections, more interactive features for families. The challenge and opportunity: maintain the authenticity of “classic car show” while embracing new generations of builders, new technologies, and changing tastes.
The 25th edition of the Syracuse Nationals was more than a car show it was a celebration of passion, metal, rubber and camaraderie. It wove together the threads of the past twenty-five years with the promise of many more to come. For those walking the fairgrounds that weekend, it was a chance to pause, admire, connect and perhaps remember why the ride, the build, the story behind the license plate matters.
And when the crowds left, the lights went out and the field emptied, the chrome and engines rested but the stories and inspiration they left behind would rev on.
TheArtist’s Corner
Meet Jim Kinne
Automotive artists and designers help turn ideas into reality for concepts, vehicle builds, parts creation and more. Automotive artists also draw to entertain us all, producing fun and exciting creations from their own creative minds and getting them on paper, canvas or a computer screen. However it is done, the results are the same: pure enjoyment and beauty for the viewer to behold.
This month we are highlighting artist Jim Kinne.
Jim was born and lived in Batavia N.Y. before moving to East Tennessee in 1981, for his regular job. Jim still lives in the East Tennessee area with his wife Linda and son Jacob.
Jim was a Graphic Artist/Illustrator for 30 years with GTE Sylvania, Philips Consumer Electronics and Berkline Furniture before he started his own company, doing various graphic and illustrative work/jobs for the furniture industry before finally retiring to do whatever he wants to. Jim has never had any formal training, he never went to college, and has no degrees. No degree, NO PROBLEM we say! Jim is a self taught artist/designer. Jim knows that his style of cartoon/realism isn’t necessarily everyone's cup of tea as they say. Jim draws everything in Adobe Illustrator on his MAC computer. I
Jim told us that he always liked to draw, even as a kid. Jim would watch his father draw stock cars and football players. Jim has drawn a lot of different types of subject matter, but cars, especially hot rods, have been his favorites for a long long time. After Jim left Berkline Furniture and worked on his own, Jim was supplementing his income by doing commission work for other people, drawing their cars and trucks and he calls that business “The Cartoon Speed Shop.”
Over the years Jim has cartooned cars, designed cars for several builders, designed t-shirts for DTF transfer, as well as designed business logos. Jim doesn’t really do that anymore (but would if you want him to create art for you), now he mostly just draws for the fun of it when he has the time.
Jim told us he doesn't see himself as an expert or pro at this. He just enjoys doing it and hopes others enjoy his work too. Jim also likes to weld and make things out of metal. Currently Jim is working on a bobbed ‘29 model A pickup...hot rod style. You can contact Jim at cartoonspeedshop@gmail.com of find him on Facebook or Instagram.
Words:JimBrandau
Photography:JimBrandau
On a crisp October morning, the rolling hills and wooded glades of Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve and its surrounding countryside near Bartlesville Oklahoma, hummed with the deep-throated rumble of hot-rods, customs and vintage machines. This was the scene of the 6th annual edition of the Gathering at the Roc an event built on the love of classic metal, the open road, and a welcoming community of car-lovers. What began as a modest gathering has grown into one of the most cherished lateseason hot-rod get-togethers in America.
The very first Gathering at the Roc was held in 2020, when organizers Jason Smith (of The Hot Rod Garage) and Brandon McCullough decided they wanted something different, less big show and more laid-back and fun. Their goal, a classic hot rod and custom gathering centered on driving, camaraderie, and enjoying really nice machines in a scenic setting. Having attended for the first time this year, let me tell you, THEY NAILED IT!
From that first year, the event took shape with a simple formula: register your car, arrive in Bartlesville, join the “reliability run” (a scenic drive around the area), spend time at the show venue (Woolaroc) where cars could relax on grass and trees, and wind down with friends and stories.
By this year, the sixth edition, the event has matured. The site, The Woolaroc, is ideal! It’s 3,700 acres of ranch land and wildlife preserve founded by oilman Frank Phillips.
The event had grown in reputation, drawing hot rods from around the country and even some international visitors.
The weekend is built around two major pillars: the Reliability Run and the Show & Shine at Woolaroc.
Thursday was registration credentials pick up day at the host hotel, The Hilton Garden Inn. The hotel property and the streets around it were a multi-hundred car show! Some say it was close to 1000 hot rods in town for the event. We don’t know if it was 100, but it was a LOT! Thursday was a fun, get to know another type of day...very laid back.
Thursday Evening saw the HOP zine PRE GATHERING GET TOGETHER bring out some cool hot rods in downtown Bartlesville.
HOP UP MagaTOGETHER
rods & customs Bartlesville.
The Becker Family, Phil, Debbie & Todd all came out for the GATR #6!!
Friday morning saw perfect weather the GATR Reliability Run!
Hot rodders started gathering early at the host hotel ,to line up at the hotel and on the streets around the hotel.
At 9am everyone came together for some instructions and info about the drive. Add in the National Anthem and a prayer/blessing for everyone to have a great drive and we were off with a police escort by the Bartlesville Police! This was without a doubt, THE BEST PART of this event. Driving your hot rod!
The Reliability Run. On Friday morning, participants lined up in downtown Bartlesville all around the host hotel (The Hilton Garden Inn) and streets around the hotel too with engines purring, and ready to set out on a scenic drive through Dewey, Pawhuska and back to the host hotel.
This event is simple, have fun driving vintage traditional flavored machines in real world conditions, spend time chatting with fellow gearheads, trading tales of builds and breakdowns.
The Show & Shine at Woolaroc. Saturday brings the highlight of the weekend. Cars arrived on the lawns of The Woolaroc, nestled among rolling terrain and wildlife, a stunning backdrop for hot rod culture. It wasn’t just about parking up and being judged, no this was a setting where machines and nature mingled, where you could wander, admire, and connect.
There was also an awards ceremony featuring builder picks, celebrity picks, creative trophies, all handed out in the afternoon. The event then relaxed into social time, hotel meet-ups, casual gatherings, stories until late. Sunday morning even offered an optional church service for those winding down.
What makes the Gathering at the Roc special? A few things.
Atmosphere: It’s not a mega show with thousands of cars and vendors. The organizers cap the number of participants to preserve that intimate feel of the event.
Driving culture: Many car shows just park cars. At The GATR you drive your car both in the reliability run, and at Saturdays show too. No trailers allowed at The Woolaroc. The whole premise is to treat the machines like they were meant to be used...DRIVEN.
The Woolaroc offers a unique setting for a car show: ranch, wildlife, museum, open skies. The contrast of hot rods and wild life preserve is magical. Yes there are a LOT of Buffalo/Bison on site and YES they have the right away!
Its truly a sense of community, hot rod community. Builders, owners, enthusiasts from all over gather, not just to show off, but to chat, share, laugh, compare stories. The vibe is welcoming, not cutthroat.
By year six, this year the event has gained momentum. The fact that people say “we’ll see you at The Roc next year” shows it’s become a fixture and a must attend event.
Saturday at Woolaroc blew expectations wide open. The roadster lineup stretched from oak grove to meadow. Every hot rod, chopped, slammed, smooth painted or patinaed found a place. Car owners answered questions, engines idled near wild life fences, and museum buildings dotted the horizon.
As evening settled, the host hotel patio lit up. Cars rolled in slowly, voices drifted, laughter rose. The night ended with stories of past breakdowns, triumphs, and the promise: “See you next year at The Roc.”
With six editions behind it, the Gathering at the Roc is poised for many more. Participants are already making plans for 2026. The organizers have built something worthwhile. This is a weekend where the love of traditional hot rods meets pristine scenery, relaxed vibes, and the freedom of driving.
So when October rolls around and the leaves begin to turn in Oklahoma, the gearheads will gather in Bartlesville. Engines will fire, tires will roll, stories will be told. And on those ranch lands of The Woolaroc, among the wildlife and open sky, the Gathering at the Roc will once again remind everyone why the road, the machine, and the community matter together.
The Golden Age of the automobile is most often identified as the 1950’s. A period marked by iconic styling, bold designs and technological advancements. The auto industry was also a powerful status symbol and a major economic force for the United States of America.
During this time many large dealership buildings were built to house showrooms, office space, service departments and body shops to service the millions of automobiles on the road. Most of those dealerships and the buildings that housed them have since closed, been torn down and in their place mega dealerships have built even larger buildings to accommodate the growing need for sales and service. One of those iconic dealership buildings was recently saved and completely renovated by Jeff & Tracy Monchilov, formerly of Frankenmuth, MI.
Jeff’s dream always was to find and restore an old dealership building and use it as a residence/workshop and also house his collection of “old junk”. After negotiating on an old Ford dealership building in his hometown, that “thankfully” did not materialize, the Monchilov’s were visiting their kids in Middle Tennessee during the Christmas of 2019. While there, they visited their friends at Columbia Motor Alley, a 1947 Chevrolet dealership building and asked them that if they found or knew of a similar building, to let them know.
While driving back to Michigan, Jeff and Tracy received a call from Mike Mefford at Columbia Motor Alley early in the morning, stating he “found our building”! A 1955 General Motors dealership in Pulaski TN.,
just 30 miles south of Columbia
The Monchilov’s immediately headed to Pulaski to look they say, the rest is history.
After purchasing the a Pontiac - Buick - GMC tional Harvester and finally until 1997, Jeff and Tracy estate company and home the move to Pulaski in October
For years thousands of looked like an old dilapidated would have razed for something something different, he block and brick structure with as they say, “great the eye of the beholder”
The first thing to accomplish ed roof system then the trical and so on. Decorating brought most of the interior property in Michigan. Reality trailer loads of “junk” as
Columbia Tennessee. immediately turned around, look at the building and as history.
properties in June of 2020, GMC dealership then Internafinally Chevrolet, from 1955 Tracy decided to sell their real home in Michigan and made October of 2020.
of people drove by what dilapidated building, that most something new. Jeff saw he had a vision. The full structure was solid and straight curb appeal.” “Beauty is in beholder” he says.
accomplish was a much needthe windows, plumbing, elecDecorating came easy, as they interior decor from their Reality was they brought ten as Jeff called it.
Once the main building was completed, the adjoining building, which housed the body shop was completely renovated as well as “the old air compressor house” that sits on the body shop lot. Now that the buildings are completed and in typical “Jeff fashion”, he says it’s time to let someone else enjoy these landmark properties so they can renovate something “new to them”.
“We’ve made these buildings our home for 5 years and it’s been an incredible experience! Pulaski has been extremely inviting and welcoming! We have exceptional neighbors and have made countless friendships. But it's time to see what someone else will do with these unique buildings!”
Both of the buildings located at 808 and 810 N. 1st Street in Pulaski, TN consist of nearly 17,500 total sq. ft. are currently listed for $2.5M and can be found by searching the address on Google or contacting Jeff @ 808 Real Estate & Speedvette Garage 989-2399364.
Jeff said “U.S. 31, aka, “The Bee Line HWY” goes through Pulaski and is also 11 miles west of I-65 & an hour from either Nashville or Huntsville.
Jeff says Pulaski offers a charming, rural community with a historic downtown home to one of the most beautiful courthouses in the state..
Local attractions such as STAAR Theatre located in the historic 1868 Antoinette Hall Opera House (the oldest opera house in Tennessee and second oldest in the U.S.), Big Machine Distillery, Milky Way Farm, Big Creek Winery, many exceptional restaurants, great shopping and more.
Jeff says the opportunities here are endless.
“Happy Motoring”
Fueling Emotion, Frame by Frame: Where Every Detail of every shot tells
In the realm of automotive photography, where precision meets passion, Wolf Motorsports Photography is a distinguished name. Founded by Jeff and Heather Wolf, this venture is more than a business it's a culmination of a lifelong dream and an unwavering dedication to the automotive world.
Jeff Wolf, an ardent hot rod enthusiast, once aspired to work for a car magazine. After having his work published unedited, online for a major magazine, he realized he could chart his own path. This epiphany led to the creation of Wolf Motorsports Media, the parent company encompassing Wolf Motorsports Magazine, its YouTube channel, and the photography division. Their mission is clear: to provide high-quality, emotionally resonant automotive content that captures the essence of the journey.
Wolf Motorsports Photography is renowned for its still-life automotive images that tell a story. Their tagline, "Fueling Emotion, Frame by Frame," encapsulates their approach to photography. Each shot is meticulously crafted to highlight the intricate details and the soul of the machine, offering viewers a window into the automotive journey.
The quality of their work has not gone unnoticed. In the fall of 2023, Wolf Motorsports Photography entered The International Chromatic Color Awards and received an "Honorable Mention" in the "Still Life Amateur" category for their piece titled "Big Block Candy." This accolade underscores their commitment to excellence and their ability to stand out in a competitive field.
Their photography portfolio is a testament to their versatility and artistic vision. From vibrant hues to award-winning compositions, the collection showcases a range of automotive subjects captured in stunning detail. For enthusiasts and collectors, these images are available for purchase in various formats, including prints and magnets, through their online store.
Wolf Motorsports Photography exemplifies the fusion of passion, artistry, and dedication. Through their lens, they not only capture the beauty of automobiles but also tell compelling stories that resonate with enthusiasts worldwide. As they continue to expand their offerings and connect with the community, their work remains a testament to the enduring allure of the automotive journey.
Beyond photography, Wolf Motorsports Media is dedicated to engaging with the automotive community. Their online magazine and YouTube channel offer a wealth of content for car enthusiasts, from in-depth articles to dynamic videos. This multi-platform approach ensures that their passion for automobiles reaches a broad audience.
For more information or to explore their portfolio and pick up a piece today visit Wolf Motorsports Photography at www.wolfmotorsportsphotography.com
1962 - Second Twin-Buick dragster. This inline twin dragster was sold shortly after it was finished and running. Why? NHRA finally went back to allowing Nitromethane in the top classes, so TV Tommy Ivo wasted no time building his FIRST
