INNISFAIL – Classic, antique, muscle and mopar vehicles drew in the crowds for the annual Weekend of Wheels.
The rain held off for the two-day fundraiser, hosted by the Innisfail Kinsmen and Kinettes on Sept. 8 and 9.
The Show 'n’ Shine took place Saturday (Sept. 8) at John’s No Frills and the 100-foot shootout at the Innisfail Arena on Sunday. All money raised from the event is going towards the town's new skatepark.
“We’ve got about just over 100 cars out today (for the Show 'n’ Shine),” said Russ Klemmer, president of the Innisfail Kinsmen Club. “We’re down from last year, but I think we’ve got a lot more spectators out this year.”
The crowds also turned out for the 100-foot shootout Sunday, with close to 200 spectators and 26 vehicles taking part in the event.
“The last couple of days we’ve had a lot of cars and people calling in to pre-register for (the shootout),” he added.
“We are very pleased with the number of people walking around. It shows great support for the Weekend of Wheels and great support from all of our sponsors.
“It’s going to be very successful this year for fundraising towards the skatepark,” said Klemmer.
Trophies were handed out on Saturday.
“We’ve also got trophies for the mobile dyno top horsepower and the People’s Choice Awards, so the spectators, sponsors and participants have a chance to vote and win a trophy as well,” said Klemmer.
In addition, the event welcomed a variety of vendors and food trucks, and featured the CCMR Mobile Dyno, along with a Women's Car Care Clinic by renowned race car driver, car care expert and TV personality Kelly Williams.
“(CCMR Mobile Dyno) has been running cars through since they got here at 11 o’clock. It’s pretty exciting to see and fun to watch,” said Klemmer.
Williams said she was happy to see a good turnout for the car care clinic.
“We did have a really good turnout and it was great to combine it with the (Weekend of Wheels) car show as well,” said Williams. “In terms of questions and feedback, it was also really good.”
Innisfail resident Carole Shaw was one of about 25 participants in Williams' car care clinic on Saturday.
“I thought it was awesome. There was a lot of great tips and things to check,” said Shaw, noting it was her first car care clinic. “I feel more comfortable with (my car) now.
“I think all women should become more aware of their vehicles and how to maintain them,” Shaw concluded.
