The 2007 Cruisin' Nationals-or simply Paso, as this show is affectionately referred to-must have been the busiest in the event's history. The number of officially registered cars has been capped for a few years now, with pre-registered vehicles only allowed into the park and surrounding streets over the weekend, but the number of non-registered cars that turn up and park in the streets radiating out from the park easily doubled over past years. There were way more spectators too, but this could be because Paso Robles is expanding rapidly and the locals were coming to take a look at the cars. We took a drive out to the southeastern section of California, scouting for a photo shoot location, and were surprised at just how large the town has become.
We arrived on Thursday afternoon, and it was apparent even then that there were fewer rat rods that were built for shock value over drivability, and more nicely put-together drivers than this show has seen previously. By Friday night there was a strange vibe amongst the traditional rod crowd as they arrived in town and found their regular hangout-the A&W drive-in-had been bulldozed. With no central location and no organizer to approach, the action segregated into local motel parking lots and the bowling alley car park, but didn't have the focus as in years past. Of course the officially organized cruise down Spring Street, Paso's main drag, went without a hitch.
Saturday saw the main show in the city park opposite the Paso Robles Inn, with many "name" builders displaying their latest projects as usual; while equally traditional, new names were made and minds blown thanks to some of the creations on the perimeter. The unique, laidback atmosphere of this event permeated the park, with new friends made and old acquaintances renewed, as happens every year-an activity that continued into the evening when live music was provided.
Alas, also as every year, the rumors abounded about this being "the last Paso," but the West Coast Kustoms quashed that one and assured everyone at the awards presentation that the show would be back next year. Which is good news, as this is truly the favorite annual show for many attendees.