Start Your Engines!

(Or at least give them a wipe down!)

It was nothing but grins and gleam at Summit Racing’s Annual Cruise-in last week, where racing and restoration nuts gathered to share their passion for pistons and, well, parts - from cylinders to pumps, plugs, rods and valves, just to start the list. (Yes, this is my second auto show in short order, but this one by request.)

What I’ve learned from mingling with the subculture of engine-heads is:

• there is a thriving array of local activities to be found -  from dirt track races under mercury lights on steamy summer nights to drag races to an endless stream of shows.
• this is a world marked by diversity, and I’ve been as likely to meet the gentleman engineer|historian as I have those in muscle tees and tats. It’s really all about the cars, and these folks are more than willing to share their knowledge and passion.
• that restoration is really an investment, and what better hobby than one with potential return.
• that there is a strong sense of humor among this group.

So, if you’ve NEVER been to a car show, I ask what you are waiting for.  At worst, you’ll spend an hour or two opened to something outside of your usual realm.

At best, you might just find yourself with a new hobby.