BOP MUSTANG OWNERS CLUB ALL USA DAY

Organizers of any weather-dependent event during the recent spring went through the wringer hoping for the best. Miraculously, the rain stopped, and the sun came out, just as the gates opened at 10am for the Bay of Plenty Mustang Owners Club’s annual All USA Day. Many owners wiped their vehicles down, not for the first time that morning, in preparation for the aficionados of American motoring that would shortly pour through the gates.

And pour they did. President David and secretary Vanessa Thomson said that more than 1800 people visited, contributing handsomely to this year’s chosen charity. Every year, the club supports a local charity, and this year it was an organization that trains and supplies dogs to assist individuals and families impacted by disability: Tauranga Assistance Dogs.

David and Vanessa were also pleased with the number of owners who gambled with the weather forecast to bring 230 classic, vintage, and new cars and commercials. The number set a new record, which is testament to the decision last year to relocate to the wonderful venue that Classic Flyers, adjacent to the airport, has proven to be. Main sponsor Extreme Automotive Parts also has reason to be extremely satisfied with the turnout.

Of course, a show of this size needs more than a president and a secretary if it is to succeed, and David and Vanessa were quick to point out that nearly all the club’s 95 members were on hand to help in some capacity — whether as ‘grid girls’, judges, gate attendants, or just general helpers. David also stated that, between them, members own 150 Mustangs, meaning that most own more than one — he and Vanessa have four. They had their lime green 1971 Mach I on show, leaving at home their 1966 coupé; 1974 Mach I; and their newest, a 2009 Shelby GT500 KR.

Many car clubs were well represented — notably, the Auckland Corvette Club, serial