PASO ROBLES — Hundreds of hot rods, antique cars, and other classics roll into Paso Robles on Friday and Saturday, May 22 and 23, for the Memorial Weekend Golden State Classics Cruise and Car Show.
On Friday night, find a place to sit on Spring Street and enjoy an American Graffiti-style cruise from 6–7:30 p.m. To participate in the cruise and show, cars and trucks must register and be restored classics dated 1985 and earlier. The cruising route is from 8th to 23rd Street.
Hosted by Golden State Classics Car Club and the City of Paso Robles, more than 400 cars and trucks are expected to be on display during the car show on Saturday, 9 a.m.–3 p.m., Downtown City Park.
Participants compete for trophies in 22 classes. “Recently our club expanded the classifications to 1985 from a cap of 1977,” explained Art Anderton, car club president. “We had people ask to participate, but they owned a 1984 car, for example. As a club we are accepting that time marches on and we are looking forward to a new collection of classics.”
This year’s event features a “Manufacturer Row” with companies that offer services for car enthusiasts, in addition to food vendors and raffle prizes. Donations for the raffle include Craftsman tool boxes from Lowe’s, window tinting from A-1 Glass, powder coating from USA Inc., and hotel stays at Cambria Inns Collection and the Paso Robles Inn.
“We really appreciate our title sponsor Kings Oil Tools. We have many additions to the show this year because of their support,” said Scotty Smith, event chair.
One addition is the car club’s new youth program called “Hot Rodders of the Future.” The program raises funds for local high school students to participate in Skills USA competitions and scholarships for seniors attending automotive-related community college programs or trade schools. “We want to support the next generation of car enthusiasts.” Smith laughed as he added, “In the future we are hoping to see less gray hair at car shows.”
Allan Duckworth registered his 1966 Mustang for competition, but he really just enjoys hanging out. “Lots of people love Mustangs and they stop and talk. I like that,” he said. “It’s one of the best cruise and car shows on the Central Coast. It’s a family-oriented atmosphere and everyone has a great time,” he said.
Members do not have to own a classic car to join the Golden State Classics Car Club. “We are looking for people who want to exchange ideas and learn from each other, help put on the car show and make new friends,” said Anderton. The club also organizes member cruises to locations on the Central Coast and other car shows.
It costs $45 to cruise and compete in the car show. Register before May 10 to receive a free event T-shirt. Visit goldenstateclassics.org to register or learn more about becoming a member.
