Bidding adieu to summer with London’s last car event of the year

By Harshpal Singh

Vintage car lovers in southern Ontario have had their last hurrah of 2017 with a car meet in London, Ont.

The Canadian Tire there hosted the event in its parking lot Sept. 24 – one last time this summer before all the premium cars hit hibernation mode in their garages for next eight months.

A weekly event every summer, the event brings out car fanatics – anyone is allowed to show off their prized cars after paying a registration fee.

According to Canadian Tire, this event was the most successful of the year and drew crowds that were larger than expected.

While many veteran car owners showed off their restored-from-scratch vehicles, while a few youths also showcased their premium vehicles. These included the Ferarri 458 Italia, Toyota Supra 2jz, and the Ford Mustang Shelby.

Amandio Capote, a resident of London and car-enthusiast, showcased his 1978 Chevrolet Camaro.

According to Capote, there is an increase in the number of road accidents because people become reckless trying to prove they have the fastest cars.

“You don’t prove anything be being a fool on the streets. We have two excellent racetracks around here,” said Capote. “You think you got a fast car? Come down to St. Thomas on a Friday night and prove it.”

Capote also added he likes these events because they raise money for charities.

“I have been doing this for a long time now, It’s a charity event and that’s the reason I do this,” said Capote, adding the money goes to 20 charities.

Just like Capote, there were a lot of other people who were showcasing their cars and ready to share experiences and difficulties they went through during their car restoration process.

Arya Jaimann, an international student from India at Fanshawe College in London, said he was amazed after looking at how well the cars were cared for.

“I just love the vintage car festival over here. This is my first car show in a foreign country where I am seeing the vintage cars around me. Apart from this,I have already seen a vintage car festival back in my home country, India. That was a lovely festival but the number of cars I see over here are tremendous and the engine size is much better than what we have back home.” said Jaimann.

Now, car enthusiasts will need wait for next summer to showcase what they have invested their time and money in during winter.