Of Homebuilts and Spraybombs

One of the requirements—and perks—of this job is to travel the country attending car shows. The bad news is, since we fly a lot, we don’t get to drive our rods and customs to shows as much as we’d like, and there’s zero fun in driving a rental car to a hot rod shindig. But every fall, as the fly-around show-season is winding down, we get the opportunity to drive our junk to some local California shows that always end up knocking our socks off. One of the fall shows that we always look forward to is Billetproof, held at the Holiday Bowl in Hayward, California.

Now in its fifth year, this self-billed “World’s Least Important Car Show” has fast become one of the best places to see the coolest low-buck homebuilts on the West Coast. It’s among those rare shows where the preferred patina is primer and homegrown hot rods rule. It’s also very refreshing to hit a show with such a mellow, attitude-free vibe; no power parking, no velvet ropes, no embroidered lawnchairs, just regular old car folks getting together and enjoying a day in the sun with their friends, old and new. The real credit goes to the volunteers who help make everything run smoothly. The head honchos, Jay Ward and Kirk Jones, are quick to point the finger at the Vultures Car Club for their support: Bill Martinez and Paul Borrmann, who worked the gate; Nick Scott, Jason Fredriksson, and Todd Mountain, who made sure everyone got a good parking spot; and Steve Merritt, Tony and Rachael Basso, Tricia Ward, Marilyn Fredriksson, Christina Jones, Stormi Rindels, and Roger and Dirty from Detroit for volunteering.

Those predisposed to sunburn were lucky enough to have the covered parking area to hide in; this area also housed the small vendor area. Upstairs, the folks were treated to live music by The Sore Thumbs and The Dynotones, which was punctuated by the unmistakable sound of balls striking pins.

This show started with about 25 entrants in its first year and hit its limit of 200 vehicles within 2 years. It just keeps getting better every year with more and more great cars coming out. This year the cap was upped to 300 cars, which made it 50 percent bigger than last year, but the show is precariously close to exceeding the limitations of its venue. This would turn out to be a shame, since the bowling alley adds a certain down-home vibe. Mark September 28, 2002, on your calendar because this show is not to be missed. For info, hit www.billetproof.com.