It's no secret that not everyone is a fan of large automotive events. Many prefer the laid-back atmosphere of smaller get-togethers like cruise nights or specialized functions geared toward a select group or style/make of car. That's all fine and dandy, but it's also a safe bet that many of these folks have never been to the Goodguys Nationals in Columbus, either! Albeit a rather large event--we're talking participant cars numbering in the thousands--it's one that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression each and every time you attend. Why, you may ask, is this particular gathering so unique? Well, that's not a simple answer, but let's give it a try.

Unlike your mass-production-style, large-scale events, the Goodguys Columbus Nats (and the rest of their events, for that matter) is put on by car people for car people. Of course, moneymaking is part of the equation, but in no way takes precedence over Goodguys' number one priority--the participants and spectators. And you can feel that focus the minute you drive or walk through the gates. Whether you're a veteran rodder with years of events under your belt or even a first-timer, the Nats is so multi-faceted that the only ones who may not have a good time are those going specifically for awards--and don't win!

Speaking of awards, along with the final installment of the CUSTOM RODDER Top Ten, there's also the coveted Street Machine of the Year (won this year by Glen Grozich's '62 Chevy, "Chicayne"), which attracts some pretty high-caliber machines. (Many of these rods have a little more oomph under the hood!) On top of that there's the Street Rod of the Year (going to George Poteet's unique Deuce five-window), as well as the Classic Trucks and Street Rodder Top Tens, so you can expect to see a very wide variety of top-notch cars...and trucks. But don't let that fool you--the average Joe and his daily-driver are just as at home in Columbus as the high-buck cars. It's that diversity that makes the Nats such a comfortable place to be each mid July.

The Street Rod & Performance Group was well represented in Columbus this past summer, which should reinforce the fact that there's plenty of variety at the show. This should also tell you that if we think it's worth going to, well, there's no reason not to drag your butt out and join in the fun. And, if finished cars aren't you're hankering, then the swap meet and used car corral certainly might have something to offer. As a matter of fact, when a staff member couldn't be located on the fairgrounds, chances were he was snooping around the swap spending his lunch money on some miscellaneous knick-knack.

And while weather in Ohio can be a big factor in July, this year's event witnessed some unseasonably low temps with even lower humidity levels (albeit with occasional showers, but nothing to really "dampen" spirits). Overall, the 6th Annual PPG Nationals event was a great success for all involved. We hope to see you next year.

CUSTOM RODDER COLUMBUS TOP TEN