World Class Car Show at Jenks Saturday

By Darlene Mashburn    
Tuesday, 21 August 2007
Rosalind and Jimmy Didott's 1963 Chevy - a 50 time winner at OK car shows.An abundance of clouds and a temperature in the low 90's was the perfect setting for the annual Jenks Car Show Saturday at the Riverwalk Aquarium parking areas. The Jenk’s Chamber of Commerce President Ruth Littlefield said "We have kept close tabs on the parking facilities here and the unofficial attendance is estimated at 7,000 for the hours between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m."

A total of 189 entries of classic cars and motorcycles were registered for judging. The attendance and entry numbers makes the Jenk’s show one of the largest in the Southwest, with next years show expected to draw a third more entries than 2007. The judges presented 50 trophies and plaques at the 8:00 p.m. presentation of winners ending the all day family event.

Jim Powell, Vette Set director and car show organizer said "Unlike last year, we have had no heat related illnesses. We are all so thankful for the great weather. The cooler temperature was a real gift and the show has been a great success"

The tremendous response by the public was the culmination of a 12 month planning campaign by the Jenks Chamber of Commerce, and the Tulsa Vette Set with the help of sponsors Danny Beck Chevrolet and Cecil's’ Tire and Automotive. Tulsa Vette Set is the largest Car club in the National Council of Corvette Clubs in America with a membership of 430 at press time. Many members worked on the car show and 47 actually worked at the car show.

Special viewing of Firestone Tire’s Tony Kanaan’s Indy car and a formula one World Champion Ferrari was a special treat for racing fans and Cecil’s Tire and Automotive also brought a Indy racing simulator for fans to try their skills on the fast track. Family entertainment included an air bounce for the kids and fast food stands.

Classic cars are not for the faint at heart or checkbook. Dick Parsons of Broken Arrow was one of the first entrants with his fancy, restored 1923 Ford Pick up. The truck has rolled away with top honors for the past two years at the International Show Car Association’s big show.

"I quit counting how much it cost to restore my truck when I ran over my $15,000 budget early in the process, but I have a garage and house full of awards and I enjoy showing it. It is great fun." said Parsons.

The 2008, Jenk’s Car Show is marketed as more than a local event with competitors and vendors expected from every state in the Southwest United States. Unlike the past four years, special guests and music will be top features.

Last Updated ( Tuesday, 21 August 2007 )