Cruise Night at the Pony: June 29th 2008

It’s Monday again, and that means more pictures from the car craziness of Winnipeg.  Today, we’ll look at the great turnout from yesterday’s Cruise Night at the Pony Corral.

Although the import scene wasn’t always welcome at these cruise nights, tuners like this Nissan and Cobalt SS are starting to show up on a regular basis.  The engine on the Nissan has had virtually every part replaced or tuned, except the valve covers.  No, wait, they’ve been modded, too.

Of course, you don’t have to have a really wild ride to get a spot at the Pony.  This ‘88 Dodge half-ton made it in because it’s just plain clean.  The owner’s taken great pains to keep his V6-powered Ram in pristine shape, and it shows.

This 396 small-block powered ‘69 Camaro SS is all original, right down to the paint.  According to the owner, it was originally built to be a drag racer, straight from the factory.  Somehow, all of it survived to end up cruising the streets of Winnipeg every weekend.

Needless to say, this Camaro isn’t so stock.  This ‘67 Camaro is like the furniture at most car shows around the city–it’s always there.  The wheels, however, are a new fixture.  The change probably gained more attention at the show than anything else.

Finally, check out this bitchin’ “Yenko” Chevelle.  Everything from the big block to the roll cage to the huge tach are built to go fast, and not much else.  But really, what more do you want out of a car?

The question remains, though:  is it a real Yenko?  There’s only one way to find out….

That’s it for today, but come back Wednesday to find out what’s up for the auto-obsessed in Manitoba.  And don’t forget to stop by on Friday for more great pics and great cars!

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Manitoba Camaro Club Show & Shine part 2

Last weekend’s Manitoba Camaro Club show had such a great turnout (both quality & quantity), I just had to put up more pictures of the event.

Bob Davies came down from Oak Bank with his orange-red ‘81 Z/28.  Camaros look good on their own, but it was really the thick paint that made this car a stunner.

Ernie Wilson came in style with his ‘68 Pontiac Bonneville convertible.  The paint on this car sparkled and shone so much, it was actually a challenge to take this picture.

Harold Hiebert’s ‘68 Dodge Charger was another red/orange stunner.  It’s hard to tell from pictures just how big this car is, but trust me–it’s huge.  I had to back up almost two parking spots and use a wide angle lens to get this, and it still barely fit inside the frame.

Tim Richard’s dragster was spending its weekend off at the show, soaking up all the attention.  According to the Drag Racer’s Association of Manitoba website, Tim (and his ‘89 Davis dragster) are unique in that he often races in both the Super-Pro and Pro-ET classes at Gimli.

Finally, let’s have one last look at Mitch Dupont’s ‘86 GMC Wrangler.  If you were here Wednesday, you probably saw how low and short Mitch has made his little yellow beast (well, now it’s little).  Under the hood, what appeared to be a big-block was force fed through a huge carb and a roots blower.  Everything that wasn’t chrome was covered up by smooth yellow sheet metal.

This truck ain’t no automotive mullet, though–it’s business in the front and rear.  Diamond plate aluminum covered the huge rear tires and axle, where a pickup bed once made this truck a useful workhorse.  Can it still carry a load of hay while towing a farm implement?  Who cares?

That’s it for this week, but don’t forget to come back Monday for more great pictures from the weekend.  And if you just can’t wait, head down to your local Chapters and pick up this month’s issue of Canadian Hot Rod & Classic magazine.  It’s now the only hot rodding magazine devoted to Canadian cars and Canadian car culture–and it’s a damn good read, too!

Like what you see?  Any image on this site is available as prints, shirts, or even a coffee mug! Click Here to order or find out more!

Manitoba Car Happenings: 4th Week of June 2008

Does waiting in the drive-through annoy you, too?  Head on down to the following A&W locations on for car-hop service, in conjunction with Cruisin’ the Dub.  It’s just like the old days, but without all the icky trans fats!

Tuesdays:  1875 Pembina Highway, 1520 Portage Avenue (across from Polo Park), 1078 St. Mary’s Road, and all Portage La Prairie locations.  Thursday:  1520 Portage Avenue, and Sundays:  3095 Portage Avenue.  Rumor has it that Saturday nights at 1520 Portage are the cruise to cruise to!

Tonight (Wednesday, June 25th) is as busy as ever with regular events in two of Manitoba’s three major cities.  In Brandon, the Co-op Cruise Night is rolling into the Heritage Co-op Parking Lot at 1035 Richmond Avenue.  For more info, call Grant Gillis at (204) 726-4382.  In Winnipeg, head downtown for the “City Lights Cruise Night” at the downtown Pony Corral, 400 St. Mary Avenue.  No matter where you are, both shows are guaranteed to please!

Red River Co-op Speedway is featuring the Modified Special Tomorrow, June 26th.  The green flag drops at 7:30 pm, with the rain date set for Friday, June 27th.  Check their website for more info.

Want more racing action?  Gimli Dragways is open for bracket racing on Canada Day Weekend.  Test & Tune is on Saturday, June 28th, followed by bracket racing and junior dragsters starts at 10 am on Sunday, June 29th.  As an added bonus, the Canadian Chaos Freestyle Motorcycle Stunt team will be performing.  To find out more, head on over to their website.

If drag racing at Gimli is too loud, it’s not because you’re too old; it’s just because you’d rather be in Lac du Bonnet for the Winnipeg River Car Club’s 3rd Annual Show & Shine on Sunday, June 28th.  The show is taking over an entire street in the small town between 1 and 4 pm.  Everyone is welcome, so long as you’ve got $5 for admission.  For more info, call Craig at (204) 345-6237 or Allan at (204) 345-2377.

And when that’s all done, hurry back to the city for Cruise Night at the Pony Corral (corner of Grant & Wilton) from 6 to 10.  Paul Williamson of Willy’s Garage will be handing out prizes all night, along with great draws, great people, and great food.  If you don’t believe me, try the Hawaiian Chicken Sandwich.

If you’re on the other side of town, stop by Tavern United at 826 Regent Avenue for Cruisin’ the Peg.  The parking lot will be filled with awesome cars, and the owners are more than willing to talk your ear off about their ride.

Finally, celebrate our country’s 141st birthday in style at the Canada Day Show & Shine.  the Manitoba Mopar Club is hosting the show at Kildonan Park, in the Rainbow Stage parking lot (2015 Main St.).  Registration starts at 10:30, for $10 per car.  If you’re just there to look, the show runs from noon to 4 pm.  For more info, call the Mopar Hotline at (204) 667-2799, or head over to their website.

Next Week:

Cruise nights abound in Manitoba next week.  Click Here for a full list of the weekly cruise nights in Brandon and Winnipeg, on Wednesday and Sunday nights.

Brandon is having an extra cruise night on Thursday, July 3rd.  The Brandon Area Car Enthusiast (BACE), A&W, and the Bank of Montreal are blocking off Rosser Avenue from 6 to 10 pm, welcoming all kinds of cool vehicles to cruise on down and show off their stuff.

Just south of Winnipeg, Red River Co-op Speedway is hosting 4-cylinder stock cars on Thursday, July 3rd.  The green flag drops at 7:30, with the rain date set for Friday, July 4th.

Dominion City, MB, is hosting the Kustom Klassics Summerfest Show & Shine.  There’s a parade at 10:30, followed by a show at the ball diamonds from 12:30 to 3:30 pm.  Rain or shine, it’s open to all makes and models of special interest vehicles.  There’s refreshments and BBQ on site, as well as a swimming pool to cool off from the July heat.  For more info, call Russ at (204) 388-6258, John at (204) 233-0115, or Trevor at (204) 422-6145.

Winnipeg Sports Car Club is hosting Race Weekend #3 at Gimli Motorsports Park, this July 5th and 6th.  Registration and breakfast goes from 8:30 to 10 on Saturday and Sunday, with events going all day.  For more info, check out their website.

All Roads Lead To Falcon Show & Shine, or so say the organizers of the show & shine at Falcon Lake, MB, on Sunday, July 6th.  Registration is from 10 am to noon, at only $10 per car.  There’s not only a great car show, there’s a great beach, Wonder Shows Midway, golf, and tennis.  All proceeds go to the Canadian Cancer Society.

And don’t forget the Sunday night cruises at Tavern United and the Pony Corral.  Click Here for more info on all the ways to cruise in Manitoba.

The owners of this trophy came to last week’s Manitoba Camaro Club Show & Shine with this huge trophy.  They also went to the trouble of bringing a matching ‘69 Camaro RS Z/28 tribute to accent the huge statue.

 

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Manitoba Camaro Club Show & Shine

Yesterday was the Manitoba Camaro Club 1st Annual Show & Shine, over at the Vickar Community Chevrolet dealer.  There was a great turnout, with lots of cars–and some of them weren’t even Camaros!

OK, so some of them were Camaros.  But hey, it’s the Camaro Club that organized this, so it’s only fair that they get the best parking spots (and the first pictures).  This ‘67 Camaro SS had a 396 small block, full roll cage with lots of go-fast stuff inside, and gorgeous green paint.  But, the impressive part was the “Yenko Tuned” sticker on the driver’s side window.

Paul Roy’s 1950 Chevy was another impressive ride, and not just because of the model.  The little Chevy workhorse’s flames extend to the engraved valve covers and air cleaner bolted to the 350 V8 engine with 4-bolt mains.  The small-block, in turn, is attached to a TH-350 3-speed auto and a posi-trac rear.  The coolest part?  It’s for sale!  Paul’s only asking for $30k, which is pretty decent for the low mileage and proven dependability.  If you’re interested, leave a comment below and I’ll get back with the contact info.  Sorry, the brown-haired girl isn’t included.

Speaking of cool trucks, this one even has a name:  ”MerPhy.”  It’s a 1954 Mercury M-100 half-ton, which was only sold in Canada.  The buildup on his truck took twenty years, but it must have been worth it for the owner.  For the show, the happy little truck’s owner went so far as to attach functional drive-in speakers to both windows.

Parked next to it was this 1967 Volkswagen “Rat Bug.”  The teeny bug has seen extensive body mods, like the chopped roof and custom hood, to give it this overall look of awesomeness.  Just to put some icing on the cake, the little Vee-Dub was pinstriped all over in white and green.

What would a car show be without a visit from some kind of celebrity?  Ernie made his appearance on the miror of John Ducharme’s ‘41 Nash Sedan.  No word yet on the number of encores, but I gotta say there were at least 2.

That’s it for this Monday.  Don’t forget to come back Wednesday, when we’ll see more of this show, and see what’s going on in Winnipeg.  Until then, adios!

Like what you see?  Any image on this site is available as prints, shirts, or even a coffee mug!  Click Here to order or find out more!

The Summer So Far…

Planning a wedding is a lot tougher than it sounds.  Mostly, it takes a heck of a lot of time.  Between tracking down our wonderful but busy minister, to mailing invitations, to finding toy tractors for the centrepieces (hey, I’m a farmboy) I hardly had a chance to pick up a camera this week.  So, instead of leaving you folks high & dry, today’s pictures are going to look back at some of the cool cars that haven’t made it onto your screens–yet.

This panorama is from the first City Lights Cruise Night of the 2008 season, just two weeks ago.  For those of you that think our government is cracking down too hard on customized cars, well, you’re probably right.  But before you start writing hate mail to your MLA*, ask yourself how many cities would close a busy downtown street for a car show?  And how many would do it every Wednesday night, for the entire summer?  At the risk of alienating readers, maybe we should be thanking our elected leaders on the rare occasions-like this-that they help out the car enthusiast community.

CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING “THE SUMMER SO FAR”

Manitoba Car Happenings: Third Week of June, 2008

Cyril Irwin’s 1950 International L110 earned its fair share of attention at last Sunday’s “Mike Lindell Memorial Show & Shine” car show.   The lack of chrome compared to Ford and Chevy trucks of the same era show that these trucks were built for work.

This Week:

Longing for the good old days?  Head over to the A&W at 1520 Portage Ave. across from Polo Park or the A&W at 1875 Pembina Highway, or the A&W on 1078 St. Mary’s Road in Winnipeg for “Car Hop Nights.”  It’s not a lowrider competition; rather, A&W is bringing back car hop service every Tuesday at these three Winnipeg locations, and all locations in Portage La Prairie.  The service runs from 5 to 8, in conjunction with Cruisin’ the Dub.  And if you miss it on Tuesday, they’ll gladly bring the food to your car at 1520 Portage Avenue on Thursdays, and Sundays at 3095 Portage Avenue.  Bring your classic car, and get entered to win a brand-new Dodge Charger.

Brandonites in need of a hot-rodding fix tonight (June 18th) can head to the Heritage Co-op (1035 Richmond) for Co-Op Cruise Night.  For more info, call Grant Gillis at (204) 726-4382.

Winnipeggers that aren’t up for the drive can head downtown this evening for the “City Lights Cruise Nights” at the Pony Corral Downtown.  The show is open from 6 to 10 pm, and free for everyone.  Sponsorship is courtesy of the Fabulous 50’s Ford Club of Manitoba, the Pony Corral, and Downtown Biz.

If you like to watch your cars go fast and get dirty, the Red River Co-op Speedway has triple the fun for you:  Tonight is the“Rumble Late Model Series” starting at 7:30.  Tomorrow, June 19th, they play host to the 60-lap feature.  Finally, on Saturday, June 21, the Stock Car Challenge takes to the dirt at 4 pm.  For more info, check out their website.

This Saturday, June 21st, Ill Conformity is hosting the annual Summer Shocker at Oak Park High School.  Registration is $10, and runs from 10 am to noon.  Spectators are welcome from noon to 5 pm, free of charge (but a donation is encouraged).  All proceeds go to Cancer Care Manitoba.  For more info, click on their website.

If you’re crusin’ in a “real cruiser,” head over to the River City Cruiser Car Club Show & Shine this Saturday, June 21.  The event is open only to PT Cruisers, and hosted by Eastern Chrysler Dodge Jeep (1900 Main).  The show runs from noon to 4 pm.  For more info, contact Gloria Hiebert at (204) 336-0903 (redcruisergirl-at-yahoo.ca).

Winnipeg Sports Car Club is holding Race Weekend #2 at Gimli Motorsports Park on Saturday and Sunday, June 21st & 22nd.  Wanna know more?  Check out their website for more info.

Nickel Days Burnout/Show & Shine on Sunday, June 22nd inThompson is quite likely the northern-most car show of the season.  The show runs from 1 pm to 3:30 pm at the RD Parker School parking lot.  1st, 2nd, and 3rd prizes will be given out, followed by burn-outs.

Not ready for an 8-hour drive?  the Manitoba Camaro Club is having their1st Annual Camaro & Friends Show ‘n Shine, hosted by Vickar Community Chevrolet.  Registration starts at 10 am, and the first 100 vehicles get free dash plaques.  There’s live music, silent auction, kids activities, and awards for Best of Show, Best GM, Best Ford, Best Mopar, and more.  Public is welcome from noon to 4 pm.  For more info, contact Mary at (204) 795-0855 (manitobacamaroclub-at-mts.net).

Finally, don’t forget to check out Cruise Night at the Pony Corral (Grant & Wilton) for the weekly dose of great cars, great food, and great people.  It’s hosted by Paul Williams of Willy’s Garage, and features dozens of great giveaways from their sponsors.  And of course, Tavern United is hosting the east-side version, “Cruisin’ the Peg” at the Canad Inns Transcona, 826 Regent Ave. West.  Both shows are open to anything wild and 4-wheeled, and run from 6 to 10 pm.

What evil lurks under the hood of classic metal, like this 70’s Ford?

Next Week:

Does waiting in the drive-through annoy you, too?  Head on down to the following A&W locations on Tuesday nights for car-hop service, in conjunction with Cruisin’ the Dub.  It’s just like the old days, but without all the icky trans fats!

Tuesdays:  1875 Pembina Highway, 1520 Portage Avenue (across from Polo Park), 1078 St. Mary’s Road, and all Portage La Prairie locations.  Thursday:  1520 Portage Avenue, and Sundays:  3095 Portage Avenue.

Wednesday, June 25th, is as busy as ever with regular events in two of Manitoba’s three major cities.  In Brandon, the Co-op Cruise Night is rolling into the Heritage Co-op Parking Lot at 1035 Richmond Avenue.  For more info, call Grant Gillis at (204) 726-4382.  In Winnipeg, head downtown for the “City Lights Cruise Night” at the downtown Pony Corral, 400 St. Mary Avenue.  No matter where you are, both shows are guaranteed to please!

Red River Co-op Speedway is featuring the Modified Special on Thursday, June 26th.  The green flag drops at 7:30 pm, with the rain date set for Friday, June 27th.  Check their website for more info.

Want more racing action?  Gimli Dragways is open for bracket racing on Canada Day Weekend.  Test & Tune is on Saturday, June 28th, followed by bracket racing and junior dragsters starts at 10 am on Sunday, June 29th.  As an added bonus, the Canadian Chaos Freestyle Motorcycle Stunt team will be performing.  To find out more, head on over to their website.

As fancy as some hood ornaments became in the first half of automotive history, it’s the simple that can also be the most elegant.  Case in point:  the hood ornament on Danny Granger’s 1946 Monarch sedan.

 

If drag racing at Gimli is too loud, it’s not because you’re too old; it’s just because you’d rather be in Lac du Bonnet for the Winnipeg River Car Club’s 3rd Annual Show & Shine on Sunday, June 28th.  The show is taking over an entire street in the small town between 1 and 4 pm.  Everyone is welcome, so long as you’ve got $5 for admission.  For more info, call Craig at (204) 345-6237 or Allan at (204) 345-2377.

And when that’s all done, hurry back to the city for Cruise Night at the Pony Corral (corner of Grant & Wilton) from 6 to 10.  Paul Williamson of Willy’s Garage will be handing out prizes all night, along with great draws, great people, and great food.  If you don’t believe me, try the Hawaiian Chicken Sandwich.

If you’re on the other side of town, stop by Tavern United at 826 Regent Avenue for Cruisin’ the Peg.  The parking lot will be filled with awesome cars, and the owners are more than willing to talk your ear off about their ride.

Finally, celebrate our country’s 141st birthday in style at the Canada Day Show & Shine.  the Manitoba Mopar Club is hosting the show at Kildonan Park, in the Rainbow Stage parking lot (2015 Main St.).  Registration starts at 10:30, for $10 per car.  If you’re just there to look, the show runs from noon to 4 pm.  For more info, call the Mopar Hotline at (204) 667-2799, or head over to their website.

Like what you see?  Any image on this site is available as prints, shirts, or even a coffee mug!  Click Here to order or find out more!

Camaros like this ‘81 Z28 bring back memories.  If you’re under 40, those memories are cruising with your buddies on a Saturday night.  If you’re over 40, those memories are about them rotten kids hanging out at the 7-11.

Mike Lindell Memorial Show & Shine

Yesterday was the third annual Mike Lindell Memorial Show & Shine in Warren, Manitoba.  It turned out to be a great day in the small town, even though the turnout was only 35 cars, including this ‘64 Impala SS:

Although the hood wasn’t open to show off the car’s guts, what we could see of this bow-tie beauty was built to go-go-go!  Additions like chromed cut-outs, big rear tires, and a Hurst shifter turned this car into a contender.

Speaking of contenders, this 1969 Plymouth Satellite was built for nothing but speed.  The giant hood scoop could smuggle a family of illegal immigrants across the border, but instead it funnels air into a 440 big-block, cranking out well over 600 horsepower. The interior looks stock, save for a dinner-plate sized tachometer and roll bar from Sandale Fabrication, and is immaculate.  According to the owner, the “BADMOPR” (see license plate) ran a quarter mile at 11.30, and has received lots of upgrades since its last run.  Best of all, it’s for sale–that’s right, this streetable beast can be yours for a meagre $30,000 OBO.  Leave a message below, and I’ll email you with the seller’s contact info.

Local resident Danny Granger took home the People’s Choice award with his ‘46 Monarch sedan.  Lots of attention to detail mixed with a lot of details make this a restoration that dreams are made of.

Just to prove that simple can be beautiful, this ‘67 Mustang 2+2 coupe dropped in.  The white stallion must have recently received an intense restoration, with everything from the chrome decals to the gold painted air cleaner done up perfectly.  Of course, perfection can always be improved upon, which is why the backseat has been replaced with a set of huge-by-wide subwoofers, and the middle of the dashboard pops up to reveal an aftermarket CD player.

Red seemed to be the colour of the day, with an unusually high number of bright red paint jobs in attendance.  The paint on Gary Griffin’s ‘37 Chevy pickup really sparkles when it’s combined with this minimalist amount of chromework.

“Elegant” and “Volkswagen” aren’t normally heard in the same conversation, but this little beetle combined both.  The beauty of the subtle yellow paint is really brought out with the white accented hood and the extra chrome bits.  Plus, the second bar on the bumper changes the attitude of the entire front end; it’s as if the car is giving you the warm assuring smile of an old friend, instead of the huge toothy grin from that creepy lady down the street.

Remember what I said about red?  This Buick Roadmaster came to the party, aptly renamed the “Road Monster.”  The loud & proud paint clashes perfectly with the fake wood panelling, and the chrome steel wheels and hood scoop round out the great “made you look” style.  It’s not the first ’suped up station wagon that’s been seen on this site, and surely it won’t be the last.

And finally, here’s Mike Lindell’s own pride and joy–a classic Nova SS coupe (photographed after the show).  Mike put a lot of blood, sweat and tears into this grey beast, as well as a big-block Chevy engine.  In the four years since he tragically passed away, his loving family has maintained this car, making it the centrepiece of this year’s Mike Lindell Memorial Show & Shine.  Let’s hope it will be the star of an even bigger & better show next year!

* * *

Just one final side note–the latest issue of Canadian Hot Rods & Classics is on its way to newsstands right now.  This month’s issue is packed with goodies like an interview with Chip Foose, a Pontiac panel delivery (with matching camper), how-to’s, and World of Wheels show coverage from yours truly.  Check out your local Chapters or Dominion News on Portage to get a copy today!

Thursday Night Boat Show @ Pony Corral Pier 7

Since we’re finally seeing some actual summer weather here in the ‘peg, I headed down to the Pony Corral Pier 7 Boat Show for their “watered-down” cruise night (pun intended).

The weather gods must have wanted the show to go off without a hitch;  the morning’s cloudy skies turned blue late in the afternoon.  However, just as things were wrapping up, the clouds came back with a vengeance.  Twenty minutes after this photo was taken, a typical Red River Valley downpour chased me back to the car.

Winnipeg Water Sports brought out a couple of their Malibu Wake Setter boats for demonstration.  This one has a 340-hp “Monsoon” engine, built by Indmar Marine Engines.  Based off a Chevy 350, the powerplant features a fly-by-wire electronic fuel delivery system, developed specifically for this boat.  Best of all, it was certified 4-Stars Super-Low Emission by the California Air Resources Board in 2007–so you won’t destroy the environment while you’re trying to enjoy it.

This particular boat is listed on the Winnipeg Water Sports website as having the usual bow rider goodies such as a Sony 6-disc CD player and halogen docking lights.  It’s also equipped with some not-so-usual accessories, like 4 separate ballast tanks and a hot water shower.

Local wakeboarder Jason Bannatyne was on hand for a quick demonstration of what the Malibu boats can do.  Jason isn’t just a random kid that happened to be there–he won in his class at Wakestock last year, and he qualified for the 2008 pro tour.  On top of that, he’s also a regular contributor to SBC magazine.  Not bad for a kid from Manitoba!

That’s it for this week, but don’t forget to come back Monday for coverage of this weekend’s car shows and cruise nights.  If things go as planned, I’ll actually be handing out some of the “awards” that have been mentioned over the last few months on this site–like, the award for “best use of attitude in a hood ornament.”  Or last Monday’s special award for “So 50’s, it makes a Wurlitzer Jukebox get jealous.”  If you’ve earned one of these “prestigious” prizes, keep an eye out for me at a show this weekend.  See ya then!

Like what you see?  Any image on this site is available as prints, shirts, or even a coffee mug! Click Here to order or find out more!

Manitoba Car Happenings-Second Week of June 2008

 

This Week:

If you’re in Brandon tonight (June 11th), head over to Cruise Night at the Heritage Co-op parking lot at 1035 Richmond Avenue, just around the corner from the Keystone Centre.  Wanna know more? Contact Grant Gillis at (204) 726-4382.

If you’re not in Brandon today, head downtown for the “City Lights Cruise Night” at the Pony Corral on St. Mary Avenue.  They’ll be blocking off the streets from 6 to 10 pm for the show.  It’s open to all antiques, classics, and special interest vehicles.  It’s presented by the Fabulous 50’s Ford Club of Manitoba, the Pony Corral, and Downtown Biz.

Red River Co-op Speedway is hosting the Super Stock Special with 4-Cylinder Stocks on Thursday, June 12th.  The green flag drops at 7:30 pm, with the rain date set for Friday, June 13th.  For more info and directions, check out their website.

That same Thursday night, don’t forget about the Pony Corral Pier 7 Boat Show at 1700 Pembina Highway.  The “Cruise Night for Boats” runs from 4 to 9 pm, featuring live entertainment from Pepe Cortes.  For more info, check out the Pony Corral website.

This Saturday, June 14th, the South Beach Casino is starting their own tradition:  “Simply Irresistible Cruise Nights.”  These cruise nights will run every other Saturday throughout the summer, from 6 to 10 pm.  The best part is that cruisers can enter to win a $1,000 cash draw at the end of summer!  For more information, contact Jim Robinson at (204) 955-7106 (rodder39-at-mts.net), or Tick Rowson at (204) 766-2100, ext. 2007 (tick-at-southbeachcasino.ca).  The casino is 1/2 an hour north of the Perimeter Highway on Highway 59.

The Manitoba Classic and Antique Auto Club is hosting a Show & Shine this Saturday, June 14th, at the Headingly Community Centre, 5353 Portage Avenue.  Proceeds go to support Winnipeg Harvest, so “bring a tin for the bin” (i.e.- bring a non-perishable food item for donating to someone hungrier than you.)  For more details, check out their website, or call Dean Weiten at (204) 771-4925.

If you’re in Carman on Saturday, June 14th, The Wheels Car Club is hosting a Show & Shine for you!  Well, maybe not for you, specifically, but you should still go.  Free Registration starts at 2 pm, with dash plaques for the first 75 entries.  Spectators are welcome at 3 pm until 8.  There’s Best of Show awards for five different categories, plus a people’s choice award.  The show is sponsored by Syl’s Drive Inn, who is handing out food coupons to all entrants.  For more info, call Jon at (204) 745-7387 (johnneu-at-mts.net) or Ron at (204) 745-0289.

Unlike the rest of Wolesley, the Wall Street Diner actually likes cruise night.  Stop by anytime, and you’re almost guaranteed to see something shiny & fast in the parking lot!

Still in a show & shine mood on Sunday?  There’s even more choices:

Western Interlake Automotive Club is having their Show & Shine in Warren on Sunday, June 15th in Warren. Registration is $5 at the West Interlake Trading Company/Lions Park site from 8:30 to 10:00 am, with free dash plaques for the first 100 cars.  For non-show & shiners, the show is $5 and runs from 10 am to 4 pm.There will be vehicle awards, a 50/50 draw, and a silent auction at 3:30.  And if you get tired of the cars (yeah, right) Warren has a great campground, golf course, and a museum/old grain elevator.  On site, there’s live bands, a farmer’s market, and food vendors.  All proceeds go to the Michael Lindell Memorial Scholarship Fund Annual Grant.  For more info, visit their website, or call Terry Lindell at (204) 322-5672 (tmlindell-at-mts.ne) or Dennis Fontaine at (204) 979-5197.

Portage La Prairie will be home to the annual “Cruisin’ the Island” Show & Shine at Island Park from 10 am to 4 pm.  Admission for participants is a non-perishable food item for the local Salvation Army Food Bank.  Dash plaques will be handed out to the first 125 rides, on top of the awards, free draws for participants, silent auction, 50/50 draw, music man, and a concession stand (sponsored by Cancer Care Services).  All proceeds go to support local charities.  For more info, contact Rusty Rutherford at (204) 239-0084 (e.ruther-at-shaw.ca) or Pete Fleming at (204) 857-8418.

And don’t forget the Cruise Nights here in town:  the Pony Corral at Grant & Wilton, and Tavern United at 826 Regent Avenue W. are each hosting their respective cruise nights from 6 to 10 pm.

 

Next Week:

Brandonites in need of a hot-rodding fix on Wednesday June 18th can head to the Heritage Co-op (1035 Richmond) for Co-Op Cruise Night.  For more info, call Grant Gillis at (204) 726-4382.

Winnipeggers that aren’t up for the drive can head downtown on Wednesday, June 18th for the “City Lights Cruise Nights” at the Pony Corral Downtown.  The show is open from 6 to 10 pm, and free for everyone.  Sponsorship is courtesy of the Fabulous 50’s Ford Club of Manitoba, the Pony Corral, and Downtown Biz.

If you like to watch your cars go fast and get dirty, the Red River Co-op Speedway has triple the fun for you:  Wednesday, June 18th is the “Rumble Late Model Series” starting at 7:30.  Then, on Thursday June 19th, they play host to the 60-lap feature.  Finally, on Saturday June 21, the Stock Car Challenge takes to the dirt at 4 pm.  For more info, check out their website.

On Saturday, June 21st, Ill Conformity is hosting the annual Summer Shocker at Oak Park High School.  Registration is $10, and runs from 10 am to noon.  Spectators are welcome from noon to 5 pm, free of charge (but a donation is encouraged).  All proceeds go to Cancer Care Manitoba.  For more info, click on their website.

If you’re crusin’ in a “real cruiser,” head over to the River City Cruiser Car Club Show & Shine.  The event is open only to PT Cruisers, and hosted by Eastern Chrysler Dodge Jeep (1900 Main).  The show runs from noon to 4 pm.  For more info, contact Gloria Hiebert at (204) 336-0903 (redcruisergirl-at-yahoo.ca).

Winnipeg Sports Car Club is holding Race Weekend #2 at Gimli Motorsports Park on Saturday and Sunday, June 21st & 22nd.  Wanna know more?  Check out their website for more info.

Nickel Days Burnout/Show & Shine on Sunday, June 22nd in Thompson is quite likely the northern-most car show of the season.  The show runs from 1 pm to 3:30 pm at the RD Parker School parking lot.  1st, 2nd, and 3rd prizes will be given out, followed by burn-outs.

Not ready for an 8-hour drive?  the Manitoba Camaro Club is having their 1st Annual Camaro & Friends Show ‘n Shine, hosted by Vickar Community Chevrolet.  Registration starts at 10 am, and the first 100 vehicles get free dash plaques.  There’s live music, silent auction, kids activities, and awards for Best of Show, Best GM, Best Ford, Best Mopar, and more.  Public is welcome from noon to 4 pm.  For more info, contact Mary at (204) 795-0855 (manitobacamaroclub-at-mts.net).

Finally, don’t forget to check out Cruise Night at the Pony Corral (Grant & Wilton) for the weekly dose of great cars, great food, and great people.  It’s hosted by Paul Williams of Willy’s Garage, and features dozens of great giveaways from their sponsors.  And of course, Tavern United is hosting the east-side version, “Cruisin’ the Peg” at the Canad Inns Transcona, 826 Regent Ave. West.  Both shows are open to anything wild and 4-wheeled, and run from 6 to 10 pm.

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Cloudy Skies at the Pony

The overcast weather made for a smaller than usual turnout at the Pony Corral this week.  Thankfully, there were enough hardcore car people out to make the show worthwhile.

Late 50’s Cadilacs are a rare sight most days.  That’s why it was a real treat to see both a ‘59 and a ‘60 pull into the show yesterday.  Their size is eclipsed only by their coolness.

Speaking of cool caddies, these two new Cadillac Convertibles were parked next to each other at the entrance to the show.  The only difference between these twins was the Foose wheels on the far one.

At one time, this 1962 Pontiac Parisienne probably hauled a family.  Now, it hauls ass with its rat-rod inspired look.  What’s even better than the black primer and home-made flames is the leopard print interior.

If you look closely, you can even see the throw pillows in the back seat–and check out the bottle of NOS energy drink stuffed behind the console!

As awesome as the leopard-print Parisienne is, the award this week for “So 50’s it makes Wurlitzer Jukeboxes get jealous” goes to Jonathan Kennedy and his ‘54 Pontiac Star Chief.  The car was originally owned by a man in Oklahoma, who sold it to a man in Windsor, Ontario, who sold it to Jonathan and brought it to the ‘peg.

The car still has the original flathead straight-8 engine and hydramatic transmission, although Jonathan rebuilt the motor down to the painful details.  He’s even put in a properly-shaped battery, instead of cconverting it to a modern cube-shaped battery.

Jonathan plans on converting the front drums to disc brakes soon, and eventually paint the car.  God knows why he’d go and ruin the car’s look with a layer of shiny stuff, but hey, it’s his car.

Let’s close this off with John’s 1969 Ford Torino 4-door.  John’s had this black beauty for about 2.5 years, and has been showing off his car at the Pony Corral for most of that time.  You can pick out his car as the one with his mother in the front seat, and his wife in the back.  Amazingly, his mother still comes out almost every week, at almost 85 years of age!

That’s it for now, but come back Wednesday to find out what’s going on this weekend, and come back again Friday to see what’s happened over this week.  There’s the City Lights show downtown, the boat show on Pembina, and two Cruisin’ the Dubs on Tuesday.  What’ll you see by then?  There’s only one way to find out!

Like what you see?  Any image on this site is available as prints, shirts, or even a coffee mug! Click Here to order or find out more!