– by Doreen Marion Gee –
Remember the “grease machines” of the ’50s and the men who loved them – polishing, painting and showing off those flamboyant muscle machines to jealous onlookers. The Torque Masters Car Club in Sidney is resurrecting a bygone era of pure infatuation with splashy funky automobiles. To top it all off, a larger-than-life event in August will pay tribute to the beauty of the horseless carriage.
Cam McLennan talks excitedly about his passion for cars and the Torque Masters Car Club in Sidney. Their Fundraising and Events Committee Coordinator, Cam clarifies the club’s value: “We want to preserve and maintain interest in all makes of automobiles and to serve as an accurate source of information concerning these automobiles for the benefit of its members as well as the general public.” Founded in 1967, the Torque Masters Car Club is open to all models, types and years of vehicles. This sizzling mix is geared towards vintage, collector, classic and special interest cars. Anyone is welcome whose heart races at the mention of a Model T Ford: “The Torque Masters is a family-oriented car club in Sidney, B.C. You don’t even have to have a car to join!” Members take great pride in their customized colourful hot rods and muscle cars.
On Sunday, August 24th, The Coast Capital Insurance 2014 Auto Extravaganza Classic & Special Interest Car Show & Shine – hosted by The Torque Masters Car Club – will rock the town of Sidney. From 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., a showcase of retro metal marvels will gleam in the sun along our town streets as ’50s and ’60s songs waft through the air. The Auto Extravaganza is the primary fundraiser for the car club every year. Funds raised allow the operation of the club, give back to local community charities, and offer a free club membership and a $1,000 bursary to an eligible student to jumpstart their auto industry career. Torque Masters Car Club is a good community partner, generously donating to three Sidney soup kitchens over the last few years.
The Auto Extravaganza is for classic and special interest, vintage, glam and kinky machines. Cars, motorbikes and trucks are welcome. This year, they are lucky to have the full title sponsorship of Coast Capital Insurance. Registration of cars is $15 at the Mary Winspear parking lot on the day of the event. It is first come, first serve. Spectators dream free of charge. Cam McLennan is glowing: “The August car show is a huge event for Sidney! It brings people here and helps put our town on the map!”
“Our goal is to revive the love of cars. We are car crazy!” Eat your heart out Jay Leno.
Contact and event info: www.torquemasters.ca.
