Y'know how all those people out on the West Coast like to brag about how they can drive their hot rods all-year round because it's always hot and sunny? Well, we know for a fact that at the 2007 Ranch Run in January the temperature got downright brisk, requiring jackets and, for many people, hats and gloves. Brrr!
Fortunately, hot rodders out there are tough, and the ferocious winter weather didn't keep 100-plus dedicated rodders from showing up in Temecula, California, on January 13th, to participate in the annual 90-mile endurance run. This was the fifth year for the Ranch Run, which is open to '54-and-earlier rods and customs. The day is organized by Jim and Carrie Benitez, and sponsored by The Jalopy Shoppe.
The scenery in the mountains and canyons of northern San Diego county is a treat for the eyes. The switchback roads and hairpin turns are, as Jim and Carrie put it, "not for the weak of motor, heart, or stomach!" The ride ended at Vista Del Valle Ranch in Valley Center, where participants feasted on food and drink provided by Dalton's Roadhouse.
Don Dillard is a Ranch Run regular and a veteran of just about every hot rod event in the West. This year, he brought his well-known chocolate brown '30 five-window coupe on the cruise-along with his trusty camera-and shared his photos with R&C.