Kingsport, Tennessee
Article and photos by Larry Crain

The Kingsport Antique & Rod Club, having celebrated over 40 years of as a car club, is the oldest in Kingsport and knows how to put on a great car show. Over those many years, the show was held in different locations, but their car show, called the Wilderness Trail Run, was moved to downtown Kingsport around Main Street and the Historic Train Station in 2003, which has proved to be a great move.

This venue is picture perfect for having a car show thanks to the wide streets and older buildings as a back drop for the customs, classics and hot rods that came out for this event. With ample room and numerous locations to park, participants could choose between in the sun or shade and whether to be on the street or off.

This show kicked off on Friday night at 6pm with a Super Cruise at the Kingsport Town Center. Then the show started Saturday morning with early arrivals rolling in around 8am to beat the rush plus get a cooler time to wipe down and detail their vehicles. I beat the rush and took these photos early in the morning before it got crowded with spectators and the huge number of participants that turned out on what was to be a beautiful day.

Participants in this show receive dash plaques, a shot at some great door prizes and also have a chance to win some the over $1000 in cash that is given away! During the day and into the late afternoon participants and spectators are treated to the great sounds of tuned dual exhaust as vehicles roll in and oldies music playing in the background.

What better way is there to spend a Saturday in May in beautiful Northeast Tennessee than having some great times with good friends and hot rods? Can’t think of many myself so hopefully next May you can shine up your favorite ride and head over to Kingsport for their annual show. I don’t think you will be disappointed. For more info on this club’s Cruise In and show visit http://www.kar-club.com/