Classic Chevy supershow enters 35th year
One of the oldest and most exclusive car clubs in the Austin area is the Central Texas Classic Chevy Club (CTCCC). Not only does this club focus on one make of car, it focuses on three particular years: 1955, 1956 and 1957 (also known as the Tri-Fives).
In coordination with other state clubs, the Lone Star Classic Chevy Convention is held every year, with the CTCCC hosting the event every five years. This year it’s time for the Austin club to host the convention again, and they will do so for the 35th time on May 19-20 at the Embassy Suites Hotel, Spa & Conference Center, 1001 E. McCarty Lane in San Marcos.
The events begin on Friday for Tri-Five drivers, but of special interest to the public is the car show held on Saturday, when a large gathering of vehicles from the “Golden Years” will be on display.
“We usually have from 100 to 125 cars,” said organizer Jim Rankin. “That’s kind of average. When it’s in Dallas they usually have a few more cars, but usually around 125 cars, and that’s 1955, 56 and 57. That was when Chevy design really came to the forefront. That was when Chevy, in 1955, came out with their first V8.”
Other show cars are welcome to come and display, but only cars that fit the parameters of the club will be included in the official show. Vehicle registration for the judged show is $75, but the public is welcome free of charge — and can even vote in the competition.
Cars can register and display from 8-11 a.m. before the cars go on an afternoon driving cruise through the Hill Country. Awards will be presented at a special banquet that evening.
There will be vendors on-site throughout the show, and there will be a custom-built bench, fabricated from old Chevy pickup parts, which will be raffled off for a children’s charity.