Portage la Prairie got a taste of automotive history today as the Manitoba Street Rod Association made a pit stop at the West End Tim Hortons.
The association is on its way to Brandon, Manitoba, for the highly anticipated Western Canadian Nationals event.
The brief stop drew a crowd of car enthusiasts and admirers, eager to catch a glimpse of the impressive vehicles.
Fueling Up for the Nationals
The convoy of classic and custom cars pulled into the Tim Hortons parking lot for a quick refuel, grabbing coffee and snacks before continuing their journey.
Tina Demmers, part of the Social Events Committee with the Manitoba Street Rod Association, explains their route.
"We are using today as an opportunity to drive out to Brandon for the upcoming Western Canadian Nationals event that's happening in Brandon, and our crew is taking the slow road to Brandon," says Demmers. "So today was a poker run, this was poker hand number two or three, and we're headed to Carberry next."
The Western Canadian Nationals event promises a packed schedule for attendees, and Kathy Milne, one of the group's members, notes that they'll be stopping to showcase their vehicles at the event.
The gathering showcased a stunning array of vehicles, proving that the association's name, "Street Rod," only scratches the surface of their diverse collection. Among the head-turners were:
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A striking white 1959 Cadillac, showcasing its iconic fins and a touch of vintage patina.
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A custom-built purple hot rod, a true testament to individual craftsmanship.
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A sleek red 1940s-era coupe, gleaming in the sunlight.
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A classic black Volkswagen Beetle, complete with subtle flames on the hood.
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A deep burgundy 1953 Chevrolet, exuding a cool, low-slung vibe.
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A dark grey 1933 Chevrolet, boasting an imposing grille and classic lines.
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A sophisticated black 1959 Buick, a true symbol of luxury from its era.
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A gleaming red Mercury, a beautiful example of mid-century design.
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A vibrant blue 1956 Chevrolet convertible, perfect for a sunny drive.
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A gleaming copper-coloured 1940s Chevrolet, showcasing its streamlined design.
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A deep maroon 1937 Chevrolet, another classic example of pre-war automotive style.
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A bright yellow 1934 Ford Coupe, a quintessential hot rod.
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A black Pontiac Fiero, a nod to the '80s sports car era.
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A modern black Dodge Charger, demonstrating the breadth of vehicles in the group.
Demmers emphasizes the individuality of each vehicle, noting, "I would say each one is unique in its own way. We call ourselves the Street Rod Association, but as you can see, we're far more than street rods. We have classic cruisers, I've got my own Volkswagen Beetle, you've got handmade hot rods here. So really, they're all unique in their own way. I can't say that anyone's going to stand out for me because they all have something special."
For those interested in joining the Manitoba Street Rod Association or learning more about their events, you can find them on Facebook by clicking here.