‘Every car has a story:’ Hot rods return for 58th year

Easter weekend means the return of one of Saskatoon’s most popular spring events.

The Draggins’ Rod and Custom Car Show is ready to get its 58th annual show off the start line.

“The adage, ‘bigger and better,’ would certainly fit his year,” said Bruno Konecsni, the president of the Draggins’ Rod and Custom Club.

“We’ve got more space and we’re able to accommodate 236 entries, over half of which are first time showing.”

Running Friday and Saturday at Prairieland Park from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., the show features vehicles from all over Western Canada.

Some star power will also be in attendance for gear heads. Steve Darnell of Vegas Rat Rod will sign autographs and visit with attendees both days.

“As a result of him being here, we’ve got all kinds of entries of rat rods from every genre you can possibly imagine,” Konecsni said.

Some of the notable entries include a 1923 Ford Model T custom roadster, an original 1939 Harley Davidson Knucklehead motorcycle and a 1966 Chevelle Pro Touring custom from Grande Prairie, Alta.

“For many of us, it’s really our artform. Instead of using a canvas, we will take a shape of steel we like and then finish it in paint and upholstery, so it looks like our own creation, as it might express our own personality,” Konecsni said.

The stalwart competition of the show returns with $6,00o on the line. Battle of the Automotive Technicians features teams of two mechanics competing to assemble a V8 engine from a pile of parts to running in less than 10 minutes.

There’s also plenty to keep the kids entertained. Mattel is celebrating its 50th anniversary by donating a six lane race track for non-stop racing action. Each child will receive a hot wheels car at the door.

“Every car has a story and every story is one approach to the sport.”