2008 Reunion Update
November/15/2008 22:57
I love seeing these old drag racing warriors saved. Rip & Natalie Wiley have spent over 4 years bringing the Stephens & Venables top fueler back from the brink. It recently made it's debut as a restored piece of history at the 2008 National Hot Reunion to rave reviews. Former top fuel competitor and current drag racing historian Don Ewald even proclaimed this car to be the "Belle of the Ball" at Beech Bend on his We Did It For Love website.
So naturally, I'm real pleased to inform you that this vintage nitro competitor will be a part of the display of cars at this year's Rodders Reunion, which is rapidly approaching in just a few days. If we ask nice, I wouldn't be surprised to see a little parking lot cackle time from this one as the evening concludes.
Every inch of the Gilroy chassis has been immaculately restored, and it features a race ready 392 Chrysler hemi engine. The whole project relied heavily on the expertise of Preston Davis, and Eddie Wilbanks, both regular reunion attendees. Also on display will be several cars that are representative of the Coleman Taylor drag racing era, but you'll have to show up Thursday night to get an eyeful.
Also, make sure you bring some mad money to the dinner as Larry Reyes will once again offer a selection of T-Shirts for sale, and the net proceeds from shirts sold at the reunion will contribute to the Shriner's Burn Transportation Fund. This year Larry will have some previously unseen designs featuring the Super Cuda and the Colman Super Ford, as well as a limited quantity of Super Cuda artwork.
Also not to be missed will be the audio visual presentation that will be a sort of double feature this year as we honor both Larry Coleman and Bill Taylor with interviews and a historical perspective.
So mark your calendars for the evening of November 20th. We'll keep you updated on the results, but there's nothing that takes the place of being on hand for the festivities. So like they say in the drag racing radio commercials of yore... Be There!
LK