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Rally of the Giants Celebrates 40th Anniversary
24/07/2005
Rally of the Giants Celebrates 40th Anniversary
25.7.05. The Rally of the Giants, hosted by the Pre-50 American Auto Club, www.pre50aac.com celebrated its 40th anniversary this year at Knebworth Park over the weekend of July 16/17th.
Formed in 1965, the club held its innaugural event, a car rally, one year later. Remarkably, not only has this event continued to this day, but it has grown is stature to become a very prominent fixture in the American auto enthusiast’s calendar. “Quality, not quantity” is the term used by the organisers to describe the standard of vehicles entered for display, and being an anniversary year, not only did this again ring true, but the event attracted well over 300 show vehicles.
Just one small part of a very impressive display of 50's iron
“This year’s event was one of the biggest and best, and combined with the glorious summer weather made it an occasion to remember,” says show organiser Sandra Toogood.
On display were assembled the finest examples of classic American vehicles in the UK, with every famous American marque, from Auburns to Buicks, Cadillacs, Chevrolets, Dodges, Dusenbergs, Edsels, Fords, Grahams, Hudsons, in fact the full A-Z spectrum of American vehicles.
Lincoln Zephyr - a rare car by any standard
Though the main arena is primarily reserved for pre ’59 vehicles, to help cater for a wider range of American car enthusiasts, a Pre ’69 category was introduced a few years ago. In fact, American cars of any age are always welcome – they just don’t get to park in the main corral.
Super straight '40s Ford Sedan was a show highlight
Pete Tucker provided a running commentry on each vehicle as it was driven through the main arena. He's seen here trying to coax a female passenger out of her seat - without success
Cars from the gangster era were plentiful - and bullet-free!
Thunderbirds are go!
Flawless was the only way to describe this 40's Ford Coupe
Fabulous early Vette with two-tone Olds in background
Elegant Packard hood ornament
This giant-sized Dodge Charger was another example of the high quality of cars on display
Story & Photos: Andy Kirk
