Owners of pre-1976 vehicles are invited to join in the “Jump In” Rod Run on the August long weekend.
Organizer Ron Choquette has mapped out a two-day route (Aug. 1-2) that is free to participate in and can be joined at any point along the way. It’s all about the camaraderie that classic vehicle owners enjoy, he said last week.
“The route laid out is circuitous,” he said, “so you may join us as we pass through your hometown (or close to it), and you may leave whenever and wherever it suits you.”
The rod run starts out at 9 a.m. Aug. 1 in Creston and heads east through Yahk and Cranbrook before turning northward and through Kimberley, Canal Flats, Fairmont Hot Springs, Invermere, Radium and Golden, where an overnight stay is planned. It starts again the following morning at 8 a.m. and heads west, south and then east through Revelstoke, Shelter Bay (where cars will board a free ferry), Galena Bay, Nakusp, New Denver, Silverton, Slocan, Winlaw, Nelson and Salmo before winding up in Creston by 5 p.m.
On Aug. 3, there will be a show and shine sponsored at the Ramada Creston parking lot for those who want to make an entire long weekend of it.
“There is no cost other than what you need to spend on fuel, meals and accommodation,” he said. “You are responsible for making your own lodging arrangements.”
Choquette will be making the trip in his 1931 Ford Model A, the Black Rose, which he lovingly rebuilt in memory of his late wife.
“Rod runs and classic car shows really haven’t got much to do with the hardware and trophies,” he said. “They are all about the people you meet. I really like engaging with owners, talking about cars and sharing stories.”
They are also a way to kindle the memories he shared with his wife, Louise, who “went to every show I ever went to — she was a part of the hobby.”
The August Rod Run is intended to be a family affair, Choquette said.
“Bring your kids, bring your grandkids. Show them this beautiful part of B.C. and help them appreciate why we love classic cars — we need to get young people involved in the hobby.”
Communities benefit greatly from rod runs and shows, he said.
“Any show or event brings business to a community. Restaurants, shops, hotels, service stations — they all get customers that might not have been seen otherwise.”
Registration is free and simple — sign up by emailing resolution@westcreston.ca.
“Just let us know where you will join us and where you will be leaving us, what year vehicle you will be driving, and how many will be travelling with you,” said Choquette.