Rod run beats the weather

 

No doubt the weather had some influence on this year’s Black Swamp Rod Run but for the 86 petrolheads and enthusiasts who turned up for the annual cavalcade it was business as usual, coming from far and wide to show off their pride and joy to the public.

The new viewing venue at the Domain proved a little dicey as, due to the horrendous rainfall on New Year’s Day, cars were unable to park on the grass which stretched organisers a bit getting everyone in place, but as the sky cleared so the public again came to look, point and reminisce with fellow car freaks.

The usual tour around the coastline, through Waipu and back again, saw many corners and intersections crowded with onlookers. Eighty-odd hot rods, custom and classic cars are quite a sight to behold, even for the uninitiated.

Organiser Sandra Brunt admitted to some trepidation regarding the weather and the scheduled assembly at Black Swamp Rd bore some changes with the usual rock band having to be cancelled. However DJ Billy Hood proved a great short notice replacement to entertain the aging rockers while kids and adults alike enjoyed the lake, flying fox and water slide.

Special thanks to Paparoa Lions and Colin Marshall of Protecta Insurance who fitted out the marshalling crew with shirts and caps.

“We had seventy registrations,” said Sandra “but others just seem to turn up during the night or early in the morning. Most know each other so they all know how the rally works and are happy just to take things as they come then spend some quality time together.”


CLASSICS: Some of the Rod Run Crew stand out in their bright uniforms. From left, Holly Brunt, Cody Brunt, Aimee Church, and Zarlia Martin. [PHOTO/Sandra Brunt]