You couldn’t miss the reinforcements that arrived at the annual Vintage Iron & Traditions of Eastern Ontario Power Show, May 28, at Cumberland Museum.
They were several big rigs operated by the Upper Canada Chapter of the Antique Truck Club of America. As participants stared somewhat in awe, the shiny Macks and Peterbilts lined up on one corner of the museum grounds.
It marked the first time the truck hobbyists – the only chapter of the mother club outside the United States – joined in at the VITEO event as part of their spring tour. The truckers made a day of it, with lunch in Kemptville and dinner in the Cumberland area.
While the showboats of the truck club are the big rigs, all trucks – and even buses – are welcome. In fact, you don’t even have to own a truck to become a member at $75 a year… you just need a keen appreciation.
That’s why one and all, with or without trucks, are invited to the really big deal, the Athens Truck Show, set this year for Aug. 19-20. The club makes a point that there’s no judging, because it’s highly subjective and can cause dissention.
However, there are commemorative dash plaques, slow truck racing, a Saturday night barbecue, and a day-camping option. As if that wasn’t enough, Athens Cornfest is being held simultaneously Aug. 19.
The first Athens show was held last year, with a surprising 174 trucks registered. They entered from all over Eastern Ontario, other parts of the province, Atlantic Canada, and the U.S.
The club’s objective is to have an enjoyable time while stimulating interest in restoration, preservation and operation of antique trucks. Enthusiasts put a lot of pride and work into their trucks, from frame-off restorations, mechanical modifications, custom body work, to chrome and stainless steel accessories.
Sounds like a very worthy endeavour and a show not to miss!
