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PO Box 254 Thompsons Station TN 37179.
Feature Writers Jim Brandau
Executive Editor Jim Brandau
Art Director-Designer Larry Williams – Williams Graphics
Senior Feature Writer Emeritus: Ed Woodard
Contributions: Michael Corazzelli, National Corvette Museum, ROD Shows, GNRS, NHRA, Isky Cams, Goodguys, General Motors, Cadillac, Shelby American, Larry O’Donohue, Goodwood Festival, NSRA, Starbird Car Shows
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SPEED KING MAGAZINE is published bi-monthly by Speed King Hot Rods, PO Box 254 Thompsons Station TN 37179. Phone 615-300-2003
On The Covers:
Front: 2026 Americas Most Beautiful Roadster
Photo Credit: Michael Corazzelli
Back: 2026 Al Slonaker Winner
Photo Credit: Michael Corazzelli
“StarterButton”
Greetings Everyone!
We’ve got a great issue for you to enjoy, if I do say so myself.
Our Grand National Roadster show coverage fills up this issue! Really wishing we had a few more pages to add more in, as there is so much to the GNRS event!
The Grand National Roadster Show is a must see event...period. If you wonder why I say that, come talk to me or just talk to someone who went to the show. Its more than a car show...its an experience.
I have talked to many “hot rodders” over the years about going out to the show, offered to help them get around to see everything that is our GNRS trip. Our Trip is more than just going to the show, its going out before the show opens and taking in some cruise-in’s and touring various hot rod shops in the SoCal area before the show even opens. Its nothing but fun I guarantee!
While there is a lot of interest, I generally hear “ someday I will go see it”.
Folks, I learned from an older friend a long time ago, “Someday Never Comes”!
Get out and go to that event or show that you have never been to yet...none of us knows what tomorrow brings us.
I am not trying to be a Debbie Downer or morbid here, but the fact is we only get so many weekends in life. The older we get, the harder it is to do things, as our “chassis” tends to get tired and sometimes breaks down.
Go have fun! That’s what life should be about.
YES costs are a factor, but give up those “BIG BUCK” coffee’s and a few other things you may not really need everyday, and before you know it, you’ll have travel money to see and experience something you have talked about doing for a long time.
I am going to GNRS next year...are you coming along? Remember, someday never comes...
HOT ROD HISTORY
The NHRA celebrates its 75th year in 2026.
There is so much that could be written and has been written about drag racings history under the NHRA’s guidance, but we’re not going to go into all that. We are just taking a quick look back in how it all got started 75yrs ago!
Founded in 1951 by Wally Parks, the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) transformed drag racing from dangerous, disorganized street racing into a structured, safe motorsport. Initially designed to promote safety through organized events, the NHRA launched its first national championship in 1955, growing into the world's largest drag racing sanctioning body.
(1951): Wally Parks, then editor of Hot Rod magazine, founded the NHRA to create safety regulations and, as he put it, "create order from chaos".
(1953–1955): The first official NHRA race was held in 1953 at the Los Angeles County Fairgrounds. The inaugural "Nationals" (later the U.S. Nationals) took place in 1955 in Great Bend, Kansas, before moving to Indianapolis in 1961.
(1960s): The 1960s saw the shift from flagmen to electronic lighting (Christmas Tree) and the emergence of specialized "Funny Cars"—custom-bodied, rear-engine, and supercharged dragsters.
(1957–1963): Following safety concerns, the NHRA banned nitromethane in 1957 but lifted the ban in 1963, allowing for the return of high-performance fuel dragsters.
(1970s–Present): The sport transitioned into bigbusiness, with the introduction of stadium-quality tracks, professional sponsorships, and the development of the 300+ mph cars known today
Here’s What The National Corvette Museum Has Planned For 2026
The National Corvette Museum is not standing still. For 2026, the Bowling Green institution charts an ambitious course that deepens its commitment to preservation while dramatically expanding its engagement with the global Corvette community. A slate of new exhibits, a major facility expansion, and a packed events calendar define a pivotal year ahead.
The centerpiece is the “Driven to Preserve” exhibition, opening on March 12th. This immersive display pulls back the curtain on the Museum’s core mission. It will feature over a dozen rarely seen vehicles, including modified legends like a 2003 Callaway Z06, to illustrate the precise science and dedicated stewardship behind collecting and conserving automotive history. “This exhibition roots itself in the ‘why’ and the ‘how’ of our work,” the Museum notes, showcasing the active preservation of Corvette’s legacy.
Simultaneously, a reimagined Corvette Hall of Fame will debut, offering a more profound narrative about the people who shaped the icon. The centerpiece will be the meticulously preserved 1974 Stingray once owned by Zora Arkus -Duntov himself. This refreshed space promises a sharper focus on the human stories of innovation and passion.
Supporting this growth, a new 66,000-square-foot collections facility now rises on the campus. This dedicated structure, opening in 2026, will provide critical space for conservation and, starting in 2027, offer behind-the-scenes educational tours. It represents a concrete investment in the collection’s future.
The Museum will also hit the road, sponsoring over twenty events worldwide. Highlights include the perennial Michelin NCM Bash in April and the Hall of Fame Induction in September. The popular R8C Museum Delivery program, which just celebrated its 20,000th delivery, continues to offer that exclusive ownership experience. Furthermore, November’s Military Appreciation Month will once again offer free admission to service members, honoring their commitment.
From its vaults to its event halls, the National Corvette Museum gears up for a year of dynamic progress, ensuring America’s Sports Car has a home that matches its vitality. For more info go to https://www.corvettemuseum.org/
REMEMBERING THE “CAMFATHER”
Ed “The Camfather” Iskenderian (July 10, 1921–February 3, 2026) was one of the most transformative figures in American automotive history. He was a visionary of mechanical genius, entrepreneurial courage, and boundless curiosity that shaped the very foundation of hot‑rodding and high‑performance engineering.
Ed was born in Tulare County, California, Ed was the son of Armenian immigrants who had fled persecution in the Ottoman Empire. His parents, Dick and Armine Iskenderian, sought a new beginning in California’s agricultural heartland, but devastating frosts forced the family to relocate to Los Angeles. That move placed young Ed at the center of a burgeoning car culture that would define his life.
From an early age, Ed displayed a natural affinity for machinery. He first explored electronics through ham radio, but his interests soon shifted toward automobiles. While attending Polytechnic High School, he built and modified a Model T Ford roadster, teaching himself the intricacies of engines, fabrication, and performance. His early experiments with Frontenac and Riley overhead conversions revealed a mind unafraid to innovate and a craftsman determined to understand every mechanical detail.
When World War II erupted, Ed put his mechanical talents to work for the nation. He served in the U.S. Army Air Forces, where he worked as an aircraft mechanic and crew chief, maintaining and repairing military aircraft that were essential to the war effort. His wartime experience deepened his understanding of precision engineering, metallurgy, and reliability under extreme conditions. The discipline and technical insight he gained during these years would later influence his approach to camshaft design and high‑performance engine development.
After returning home, Ed rejoined the Southern California racing scene with renewed purpose. When legendary cam grinder Ed Winfield could no longer keep up with demand, Ed purchased his own grinding machine and began crafting camshafts a decision that would alter the trajectory of motorsports.
In 1946, he founded Iskenderian Racing Cams, a company that quickly became synonymous with performance and precision. His innovative cam profiles helped racers achieve unprecedented speeds in drag racing, land‑speed competitions, and early NASCAR. Beyond engineering, Ed pioneered modern performance marketing, popularizing decals, magazine ads, and the iconic “Isky” brand that became a badge of honor for racers.
His influence extended far beyond the workshop. As the first president of SEMA, he helped shape the aftermarket industry into a global powerhouse. His leadership, technical insight, and unwavering enthusiasm earned him recognition as one of Chevrolet’s “Legends of Performance.”
Race In Peace Ed….
Cadillac F1 Livery Makes European Debut In Paris
The Cadillac Formula 1 Team unveiled the livery of its maiden Formula 1 challenger to a global audience through a national TV advertising spot during Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. The white and black scheme will be used by the American squad throughout 2026, making its Grand Prix debut in Formula 1 in Melbourne, Australia (March 6-8), as the sport’s 11th team. Shortly after the ad appeared on TV, a replica of the first Cadillac Formula 1 Team car was unveiled in Times Square.
The Cadillac Formula 1 Team car is dualcolored, with one black side and one white side. The design gradient is a Cadillac chevron repeating: a subtle nod to the coownership of General Motors and the iconic Cadillac symbol, company officials stated in a press release.
“This livery represents far more than a paint scheme; it represents who we are and what we bring to Formula 1,” said Dan Towriss, CEO of Cadillac Formula 1 Team Holdings. “Every detail is intentional: bold, modern and unmistakably American, while respecting the heritage and precision that define this sport. Choosing to reveal our first race livery during the Super Bowl and in the heart of Times Square is a way to introduce our identity to the world at the intersection of performance, culture and entertainment, and to connect with fans in places far beyond the paddock.”
“Unveiling our official race livery is a huge milestone in a journey that started years ago earning our place on the grid, assembling a world-class team and developing a race car worthy of Formula 1,” said GM president Mark Reuss. “The momentum is building toward Melbourne and our Grand Prix debut. For GM, this race car showcases the American innovation, spirit and pride we want to bring to the global stage of F1.”
The team, which has bases in Indianapolis, Indiana; Charlotte, North Carolina; and Silverstone, Northamptonshire (UK), has been built from the ground up. Established in partnership between TWG Motorsports, the motorsport arm of TWG Global, and General Motors (GM), it aims to bring together a legacy of engineering excellence and a shared commitment to innovation and performance, noted the release. Both TWG and GM provide technical, operational and commercial support, know-how, and infrastructure to the Cadillac Formula 1 Team.
Goodguys Rod & Custom Association Adds 4×4 of the Year Award for 2026
Goodguys Rod & Custom Association, producer of Goodguys car shows, is adding an all-new 4×4 of the Year presented by Roadster Shop category for four-wheel drive lifted trucks and SUVs to the popular Goodguys Top 12 Awards program presented by BASF. The new category will be introduced in the 2026 season and replaces Trendsetter of the Year, which was added as a Top 12 category in 2024.
Goodguys will continue to award the Goodguys Trendsetter Award each year as it has done since 1998.
Building and modifying vintage four-wheel drive trucks and SUVs is a growing trend among collectors and builders in the hot rod aftermarket, according to association officials. Goodguys has kept track of the rapid growth in the market, which has coincided with automotive aftermarket companies developing new parts and products to make the custom builds more achievable at a higher level.
“Lifted 4×4 trucks and SUVs are no strangers to the Goodguys Top 12 awards program and have regularly found finalist spots during the past seven years in the LMC Truck of the Year Early (pre1960) category and the Dakota Digital Truck of the Year Late (1960-99) category,” Goodguys stated in a press release announcing the new Top 12 Award. “With an increasing number of builds continuing to debut, Goodguys decided that giving these 4×4 machines their own dedicated category was the next step in supporting and pushing their evolution.”
4X4FINALISTEVENTS
The Goodguys 4×4 of the Year will be a regional Top 12 award, with seven finalists selected during the 2026 season, starting at the 16th LMC Truck Spring Lone Star Nationals presented by Old Air Products in March. Here is the full schedule of 4×4 finalist events:
• 16th LMC Truck Spring Lone Star Nationals presented by Old Air Products, March 6-7 – Fort Worth, TX
• 26th LMC Truck Southeastern Nationals, June 12-13 – Perry, GA
• 35th Speedway Motors Heartland Nationals, July 3-5 – Des Moines, IA
• 38th Griot’s Garage Pacific Northwest Nationals presented by Wicked Fabrication, July 24-26 –Puyallup, WA
• 39th West Coast Nationals – August 21-23 – Pleasanton, CA
• 33rd Summit Racing Lone Star Nationals, October 2-3 – Fort Worth, TX
• 29th Speedway Motors Southwest Nationals, November 20-22 – Scottsdale, AZ. (This finalist selection in 2026 rolls over to 2027 running.)
Eligible vehicles for this new Top 12 title will be lifted four-wheel drive trucks and SUVs through 1999 vintage. All lifted 4×4 trucks and SUVs will be eligible for 2026 title; Goodguys will be looking for new debut vehicles (AKA “of the Year”) beginning in 2027.
For more info head to www.good-guys.com
ROD TOPS HAS A NEW OWNER!
SPEED & DESIGN Hot Rod Interiors has purchased Rod Tops at the beginning of 2026.
SPEED & DESIGN is in the process of moving the whole operation from upper Michigan to Nashville TN. Weather has been making the move take a little longer than planned. Current customers are aware of this and have been added to the list of back orders that they will be working to knock as quickly as possible.
The website www.rodtops.com is in process of being updated but their TOLL FREE number 888-ROD-TOPS is up and working. They are working as hard as they can to get everything moved to TN, and up and running. Gil Vigil is thankful to family, friends, distributors, and many customers who are making this a reality.
ROD TOPS specialize in 29-31 Model A roadsters/trucks 1932, 33,34, roadsters/trucks, Factory 5 Cobra, Factory 5 33, Shadow Rods, Brookville roadster/trucks, just to name a few.
Shelby American, a wholly owned subsidiary of Carroll Shelby International Inc., introduced a limited run of 2026 Shelby GT350/TA edition cars at Barrett-Jackson in Scottsdale, Arizona. The 830-plus-horsepower sports car is inspired by Trans Am SGT category specs in honor of the 60th anniversary of the first year of the series, which Shelby-built Ford Mustangs helped Ford Motor Company win in 1966. Constructed in collaboration with Turn Key Automotive, the street-legal GT350/TA is track-ready with components from Shelby’s future Trans Am spec race car.
“1966 was a dominant year for Shelby American in motor racing,” said Joe Conway, CEO of Shelby American. “Shelby American helped Ford Motor Company win the FIA World Sportscar Championship, largely thanks to the legendary victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, along with SCCA Bproduction series with the Shelby GT350. Shelby’s efforts were vital in Ford’s overall Trans -Am success, as the Mustangs’ points helped it win the first-ever Manufacturers’ Championship. We’re returning to those racing roots with this limited-edition car, which also portends many elements of our future Trans Am spec race car.”
The Trans-Am series Manufacturers’ Championship was new for 1966. Shelby American built race spec Ford Mustangs for the Trans Am Group 2, using many parts from their “R” models but retaining Ford VINs for manufacturer points. Drivers like Jerry Titus, Peter Talbert, Ira Morrison and Vic McClain raced Shelby American Group 2 Mustang notchbacks in the inaugural series, helping Ford win the championship with key wins and points.
“The 2026 Shelby GT350/TA is an amazing car that builds upon the 60th anniversary model Shelby GT350R that we introduced last year,” said Gary Patterson, president of Shelby American. “This sports car is designed to be competitive on both the street and track. Our motorsports roots are deep, and we continue to bring that championship DNA to every car we build.”
The Shelby GT350/TA was built for the serious weekend track warrior, company officials stated in a press release. Beginning with the popular street version of the 2026 Shelby GT350, the Shelby team focused on reducing weight, sharpening the performance and keeping it cool at speed.
The street-legal, track-ready 2026 Shelby GT350/TA has 830-plus horsepower and is only available with a 6-speed manual transmission. It features a carbon fiber interior “tub,” integrated roll cage, Trans AM spec high-speed carbon-fiber Aero package, fully adjustable race struts and shocks with remote reservoir, new Alcon racing brakes, numerous chassis upgrades and more.
Goodwood Festival of Speed to Reunite 3 Legendary Cars
The 3 Ford GT Mk IIs that secured the legendary 1-2-3 finish at Le Mans in 1966 will appear together for the first time in 10 years!
This year, the Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard and Goodwood Revival will host a reunion of the cars that were part of the iconic 1-2-3 finish at the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans, July 9-12th. For the first time in a decade, the three Ford GT Mk IIs driven by Bruce McLaren and Chris Amon, Ken Miles and Denny Hulme, and Ronnie Bucknum and Dick Hutcherson will not only appear together, but also run, event officials stated in a press release.
These legendary cars chassis P/1046, P/1015 and P/1016 will take to the Goodwood Hill during the Festival of Speed as the event celebrates some of motorsport’s greatest showdowns. The event’s theme, “The Rivals – Epic Racing Duels,” honors the 60th anniversary of the intense battle between the combined forces of Ford Motor Company and Carroll Shelby’s Shelby American, and Ferrari.
The Historic Motor Circuit at Goodwood Revival
In September, the trio will reunite once more at Goodwood Revival, Sept. 18-20, where they will run on the historic Motor Circuit, offering fans a rare chance to witness these icons in action, noted the release.
The Duke of Richmond CBE DL commented, “I am absolutely delighted that the historic 1 -2-3 Ford GT Mk IIs will be reunited at Goodwood this year. The legendary result of the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans is immortalized in motorsport history, and it will be incredibly special to see these three cars run together once again. We are hugely grateful to the Shelby family, Miller Family Automobile Foundation and Rob Kaufman, RK Motors for making this possible.”
“An intense personal rivalry between three influential figures in the auto industry sparked a fierce competition during the golden era of sports car racing,” said Aaron Shelby, board member of Carroll Shelby International and grandson of the automotive icon. “The epic struggle of Ford and Shelby against Ferrari played out at tracks around the globe, culminating at Le Mans in 1966. That incredible race, which continues to resonate with motorsports fans worldwide, shaped Shelby American’s destiny for the next 60 years.”
2026 NSRA Street Rod Nationals Schedule
The 2026 National Street Rod Association (NSRA) schedule features eight major events, starting with the Western Street Rod Nationals in Bakersfield, CA on April 24-26, and culminating with the Street Rod Nationals North in Kalamazoo MI.
The 57th Annual Street Rod Nationals will take place once again in Louisville, KY August 6-9. Key regional events include shows in Tennessee, Missouri, Pennsylvania, Colorado, Iowa, Vermont, and Michigan. For all the info on each event and to sign up to participate, go to https://nsra-usa.com/events/
Winners of America’s Most Beautiful Roadster & Al Slonaker Memorial Award
The O’Reilly Auto Parts Grand National Roadster Show, presented by Meguiar’s, recognized the country’s top roadsters, hot rods and custom vehicles during its awards ceremony on Sunday, Feb. 1st, at the Fairplex in Pomona, California. The ceremony marked the culmination of the 76th annual show and included the presentation of two of the custom car world’s most coveted awards America’s Most Beautiful Roadster (AMBR) and the Al Slonaker Memorial Award, event organizers stated in a press release.
America’s Most Beautiful Roadster was awarded to a 1932 Ford Roadster owned by Nicole Baird and built by Squeeg’s Kustoms. The car beat out eight other AMBR contenders and took home the title’s $12,500 prize sponsored by ARP Fasteners. Baird’s name will be engraved on the award’s 9.5-foot-tall perpetual trophy alongside 75 former AMBR award recipients, including legends like George Barris, Andy Brizio and Chip Foose.
Dennis Troggio’s 1955 VW Karmann Ghia, built by Type One Restoration, was awarded the 2026 Al Slonaker Memorial Award. Troggio went headto-head against a diverse field of 12 contenders, which included a 1958 Chevrolet Corvette, 1956 Chevrolet and a 1951 Studebaker Champion.
Dedicated to the memory of Al and Mary Slonaker, who founded the Grand National Roadster Show in 1950, the award has been presented to the show’s best nonroadster vehicle since 1974. In addition, Traggio also received a $12,500 prize courtesy of ARP Fasteners and a billet trophy.
See more of both of these outstanding vehicles elsewhere in this issue of Speed King Magazine.
NHRA's 75th Anniversary!
The National Hot Rod Association is celebrating its 75th year in 2026! That’s a lot of drag racing and a lot of history!
Along with many planned events and celebrations marking the 75th milestone, NHRA has released a new book capturing many of the historic moments and iconic racers, manufacturers and NHRA staff members from over the past 75 years.0
You can celebrate 75 years of NHRA's most unforgettable moments with a limited edition coffee table book - now on sale!
Packed with rare and iconic photos, plus stories behind the sport's evolution since the 1950s, this is a must-have item for any racing fan's collection.
But you must act quickly - there is a limited run of books available at the link below, so order yours today! https://nhra.com/books
GOING FOR THE GOLD!
The 61st Starbird Rod & Custom show took place February 20th 22nd, 2026 at the Tulsa Expo Center in Tulsa OK. Its always a great show with cars and trucks from across the USA coming out to be part of the show.
One of the many features that everyone looks forward to, is the competition for the “FINE NINE, GOING FOR THE GOLD” Award. Getting selected for the FINE NINE is an achievement in itself, with the strong competition that comes out year after year.
The BIG Winner this year is Danny Asher out of Linn Valley, KS for winning the 2026 “Go for the Gold” award with his 1949 Pontiac Chieftain! CONGRATULATIONS!
Artist’s Corner The
Meet Micah Claycamp…...
Automotive artists and designers help turn ideas into reality for concepts, vehicle builds, parts creation and more. Automotive artists also draw to entertain us all, producing fun and exciting creations from their own creative minds and getting them on paper, canvas or a computer screen. However it is done, the results are the same: pure enjoyment and beauty for the viewer to behold.
This month we are highlighting artist Micah Claycamp!
Micah is a husband, father of 4, proud grandpa, Christian, and the hand behind Micahdoodles! Micah has loved drawing ever since he was a kid, but it wasn’t until December of 2014 that he started getting requests to draw people’s vehicles in his unique CARtooned style. That’s when Micahdoodles was born and what a wild ride it's been for him!
Though he does this part-time, Micah pours his heart into every piece. He spends weekends and a few weeknights working on custom artwork for clients from all over most of whom find him through Facebook or online communities. Micah’s style continues to grow and evolve, and he is constantly inspired by the amazing community of fellow car artists and enthusiasts.
Every Monday night at 6pm Mountain Time, Micah goes live and colors a custom piece he has drawn the week before. You can catch that on the Cartoons Magazine Automotive Humor Facebook page or on his personal Facebook Micahdoodles page. Micha has been doing these weekly sessions for over 6 years now, and he feels it’s a great way to connect with fans and fellow artists.
Micah is also active as an admin in groups like Cartooned Drawings of Cars, Trucks and Bikes and Free Cartoon Coloring Pages amazing spaces where artists and gearheads come together to share, learn, and have fun.
If you’re a car artist just starting out, here’s Micah’s advice: Get involved in a car art forum on Facebook, Instagram, wherever. Draw often, post often, and learn from others and most of all have fun with it and keep on doodling!
The 76th Grand National Roadster Show (GNRS) celebrated of hot rods, customs, and specialty automobiles with nity. Once again it was held in Pomona California, at of the most anticipated automotive exhibitions in the builders, enthusiasts, and designers showcase their
celebrated the enduring spirit and craftsmanship with a blend of nostalgia, innovation, and commuthe FAIRPLEX. The GNRS has grown into one the world. It truly is a gathering place where passion for American automotive culture.
Words by Jim Brandau
by
Photos
Michael Corazzelli
For many of the spectators and participants, it really is GNRS week, with many hot rodders coming into town early to tour the various hot rod shops and automotive attractions in the Southern California area. It truly Hs an international flair and is a worldwide event, as many languages are heard throughout the show all week and weekend long.
The Grand National Roadster Show dates back to 1950, making it the longest continually running indoor car show in the United States. What began as a small exhibition of custom roadsters transformed into a cultural institution that has helped define hot rodding. Over seven and a half decades, the event has charted the evolution of automotive design, capturing trends from classic woodies and vintage roadsters to modern interpretations of custom craftsmanship.
In 2026, the 76th edition reaffirmed why the GNRS holds a special place in the hearts of car lovers. While the world has changed dramatically since the show’s founding, the core principle remains the same: celebrating creativity, ingenuity, and dedication in automotive restoration and customization.
The sprawling indoor exhibit halls were transformed into a vivid automotive
BBT Fab brought the recently crowned BARRETT-JACKSON CUP Winning ‘59 Impala to this years GNRS
Corey Taulbert & Ashley Taulbert brought the recently restored “ SILVER SAPPHIRE” AKA The Little Deuce Coupe to this years GNRS as a Featured Vehicle! Absolutely Stunning!
playground. Walkways were lined with immaculate classics, radical concepts, and beautifully restored icons from different eras. The atmosphere blended reverence for automotive heritage with the excitement of innovation, drawing attendees from around the world.
From early morning through closing, the halls buzzed with conversation. Families explored vintage designs, young builders examined craftsmanship for inspiration, and seasoned collectors admired the attention to detail that each vehicle represented. The hum of excitement was a constant reminder that automotive culture thrives not only through machines but through community.
The cornerstone of the Grand National Roadster Show, in our opinion, is the prestigious America’s Most Beautiful Roadster (AMBR) Award, one of the most coveted trophies in automotive customization. Judged on criteria ranging from design integrity and craftsmanship to performance relevance, the AMBR winner is more than a beautiful show car it represents a holistic achievement in automotive artistry.
The other major award at the GNRS is The Al Slonaker Award for the BEST non-roadster shown for the first time.
While the AMBR Award is first and foremost at GNRS, The Slonaker award carries as much weight in the automotive community as the AMBR or any other award out there. This award truly recognizes the BEST OF THE BEST anywhere.
More than just a car show, the Grand National Roadster Show serves as a cultural gathering that bridges generations. Enthusiasts young and old came together not merely to look at cars, but to share stories, swap tips, and forge new friendships. Clubs from across the country displayed themed collections, while vendors offered rare parts, bespoke accessories, and custom apparel catering to the automotive lifestyle. Seminars and panel discussions enriched the experience. Veteran builders spoke about techniques honed over decades, while new innovators discussed how digital tools are transforming design and fabrication. These sessions were as much a part of the event as the cars themselves providing context, education, and inspiration. Photography exhibitions, vendor demonstrations, and interactive displays further enhanced the show’s offerings.
Attendees were encouraged not only to observe but to engage whether that meant trying out a new tool, talking shop with a master builder, or capturing the perfect shot of a gleaming custom roadster.
The 76th Grand National Roadster Show reaffirmed why the event remains a centerpiece of automotive culture. In a world increasingly dominated by digital interactions and automated transport, the GNRS celebrates the tangible, the handcrafted, and the passionately curated. It honors a legacy while embracing the future proving that the love of cars, all cars is timeless.
As builders lock in plans for the 77th show, the automotive community reflects on the 76th edition not just as an exhibition, but as a milestone in the ongoing story of creative ingenuity. From classic fenders to modern re-imaginings, the Grand National Roadster Show continues to steer the culture forward one roadster at a time.
The 76th America’s Most Beautiful Roadster (AMBR) Competition, held during the prestigious Grand National Roadster Show, once again proved why it remains one of the most coveted honors in the world of custom automobiles. For generations of builders, earning the AMBR title represents the pinnacle of hot rod craftsmanship a blend of artistry, engineering, patience, and vision brought together under the bright lights of competition.
Since its introduction in 1950, the AMBR award has symbolized excellence in roadster design. The 76th competition continued that tradition, presenting an extraordinary lineup of contenders that reflected both reverence for classic hot rod heritage and bold steps forward in innovation.
This year’s field featured an impressive mix of nine traditional and contemporary interpretations of the American roadster. Many competitors drew inspiration from the iconic 1932 Ford platform long considered the gold standard in hot rodding but reimagined it with modern chassis engineering, advanced suspension geometry, and meticulously crafted interiors. Others leaned toward a more period-correct aesthetic, showcasing restrained paint palettes, vintage-style hardware, and historically faithful drivetrains.
Judging for the AMBR award is a comprehensive process that goes far beyond surface beauty. While flawless paint and polished chrome are certainly eye-catching, judges evaluate every aspect of the build. Frame construction, body modifications, engine presentation, wiring execution, interior craftsmanship, and overall cohesion all factor heavily into the scoring. The vehicle must function as beautifully as it looks, demonstrating thoughtful engineering as well as aesthetic harmony.
Winning the AMBR trophy is more than a moment of glory. The award instantly places the roadster and its builder among an elite group in automotive history. Past winners have gone on to become industry legends, influencing design trends and fabrication standards for years to come.
The 76th America’s Most Beautiful Roadster Competition reaffirmed that hot rodding is alive and evolving. While technology and tools may change, the heart of the competition remains constant: a relentless pursuit of perfection, driven by creativity, dedication, and a deep love for the American roadster.
Words by Jim Brandau
Photos by Michael Corazzelli
CORYKOZLOWSKI
BETHMYERS
STANLEYCHAVIK
1932FordRoadster
JOHN&JENNIFERFARLEIGH
NicoleBaird
1932FordRoadster
Words by Jim Brandau
Photos by Michael Corazzelli
Say hello to “The Blue Ribbon” Roadster!
America’s Most Beautiful Roadster was awarded to a 1932 Ford Roadster owned by Nicole Baird and built by Squeeg’s Kustoms. The car beat out eight other AMBR contenders and took home the title’s $12,500 prize sponsored by ARP Fasteners.
Baird’s name will be engraved on the award’s 9.5-foot-tall perpetual trophy alongside 75 former AMBR award recipients, including legends like George Barris, Andy Brizio and Chip Foose.
A descendant of the Ford Motor Co. family, Baird presented a meticulously executed roadster finished in metallic blue pearl with white scallops detailed finishes. The paintwork was completed by Tracy and Terry Weaver, complemented by extensive chrome by Jon Wright & Ogden Chrome and polish from Russell’s Custom Polish. Power is supplied by a Buick Nailhead V-8 built by Roger Beckman, while the interior was crafted by Recovery Room.
At the 76th Grand National Roadster Show, the spotlight shone not only on classics contending for America’s Most Beautiful Roadster but also on another prestigious accolade the Al Slonaker Memorial Award. Established nearly five decades ago, this award honors the best non-roadster build at the show, celebrating excellence in custom and traditional vehicle craftsmanship across a broader spectrum of automotive artistry.
Named in memory of Al and Mary Slonaker, founders of the Grand National Roadster Show, the Slonaker Award was first presented in 1974 as a way to recognize builds that fall outside the roadster category encompassing everything from customs and street machines to trucks and unique classics. Over the years, it has grown into one of the most coveted prizes at the GNRS, attracting entries from top builders and collectors across the country. With its rich history and legacy, the award stands alongside the AMBR trophy as a symbol of outstanding achievement in the custom car world.
For the 76th edition of the GNRS there was a competitive field of 12 exceptional vehicles spanning decades and styles. Entrants included a diverse mix of classic American muscle, European imports, fully customized builds, and meticulously restored icons each judged for originality, design, craftsmanship, engineering, and overall presentation.
In recognition of the achievement, this years Al Slonaker winner received a $12,500 prize sponsored by ARP Fasteners and a custom billet trophy, cementing his place among the elite builders honored by the Grand National Roadster Show.
Here all 12 Slonaker Contenders getting their pictures taken but more importantly the 1st step in judging is taking place with a look at stance, and how the drivers sits and looks in the car and a look at how the car looks overall when sitting on the ground.
Words by Jim Brandau
Photos by Michael Corazzelli
HANK
1970CHEVELLE
Contender
Words by Jim Brandau
Photos by Michael Corazzelli
After careful deliberation by a panel of industry experts, the 2026 Slonaker Award was presented to Dennis Troggio’s 1955 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia, a build that captured both the judges’ attention and the admiration of the show’s enthusiastic audience. Built over four years by Type One Restoration, this Karmann Ghia wasn’t merely restored it was reinvented. With almost every original panel reshaped, restyled, or replaced, the car showcased a level of detail and craftsmanship that set it apart from its competitors.
Finished in a rich custom dark green over olive green paint scheme, Troggio’s Ghia featured extensively modified bodywork, including reshaped fenders, doors, hood, and decklid, as well as extended quarter panels to accommodate wider tires. Attention to detail extended into the drivetrain and performance areas, where a 2.4-liter air-cooled flat-four engine was paired with a reinforced transmission and limited-slip differential to handle the increased output. The build also included bespoke fasteners with custom-machined bolt heads and brake rotors crafted from solid cast iron elements that elevated the Ghia from a thoughtful restoration to a true work of automotive art.
CollectorCarVehicleInsurance
Article:LarryO’Donohue Photos:SuppliedbyAuthor
Editors Note: Specialty Vehicle Insurance One of our least favorite things to deal with for our pride and joy! We all need to have it and it is a topic of conversation when car people get together. We asked Larry to give us an article on the Collector Car Insurance Industry. This article is where we start with more installments to come in future issues.
History
For those of us who are fortunate to be in the Collector Vehicle Community, I am astonished that this hobby is flourishing as it is. The Boomers have discretionary money. The depth and breadth of the cars now are better than ever!
While the pension and passion for the earliest model cars 1920’s-1930’s is beginning to wane, the most unique and most collectable vehicles of that generation will always retain their ‘Cherished Value”
Some of the “Muscle Cars” of the 1960’s to the mid 1970’s has hit a value plateau- unless you have one of the Unique Pieces with high options and low matching numbers.
It boils down to money- just how deep are your pockets? Do you buy that dream car you wanted and lust for as a young person; do you buy a Modern Muscle Car or get that Vette?!
Regardless of your collector vehicle appetite may be, car insurance should not be your issue.
ABRIEFHISTORY
The Collector Car Insurance Industry dates back to 1947- nearly 80 years ago.
Why ensure collector cars in the late 1940’s? Cause your father -in – law asked you to! He said to find him low-cost full coverage reflecting discounts
for the reasons that the cars were garage kept, used rarely, and were of significant collectable value- Sound familiar?
The first car covered by a collector type policy was a Pullman. It is still in a unique collection today, and still resides in Philadelphia- near where it was built.
The pioneering insurance agent was none other than James A Grundy Sr.
The Pullman is still in the family! From that point forward until today the Grundy name has been the leader in the collector car insurance industry.
Fast forward to today. The collector car landscape has not changed very much- The Cherished Value program is still in existence, drastically reduced rates are still available, and the insurance industry has adopted Agreed Value as the benchmark of quality coverage.
It’s SIMPLE, based on current market conditions, you, the owner and the insurance broker come to an agreement that your vehicle is worth $X. If in fact the unit is involved in an insured incident and deemed unrepairable (total loss) you get 100% of the Agreed Value, in most cases with NO deductible to reduce your settlement.
That’s it! Whether it’s a late model exotic, muscle car, led sled, rat rod, pro touring, classic, hot rod, truck or even a motorcycle, determine the value and if it’s a collectable vehicle, garage kept and used for unlimited pleasure driving – YOU most likely will qualify! There are at least a half dozen Brokers who represent one insurance company and will offer you similar coverage to their competitors.
But wait! Some have mileage restrictions, some companies do restrict your usage, are there modifications and increased horsepower issues?
Are they unwilling to cover your Pro Streetcar and pray they will take a car with a blower sticking out of the hood...or will they?
Does the other person at the end of the phone understand collector car insurance let alone the collector car hobby?
At TKI we offer service, selection and price and just one call covers it all.
At TKI.LLC, TurnKey Collector Car Insurance, the management has over 100 years of collector car experience and the agents have collective 80 years’ experience selling specialty auto insurance. They have claims settlement backgrounds. However, the best news is that they are pure collectors as well!
TKI is a full broker. We shop for you, in addition to ensuring vehicles.
TKI also provides insurance to the Collector Car Garage and Dealer industry.
TKI provides claims assistance and will expedite a fair repair settlement and care that you will return to 100% satisfaction. TKI has great relationships with the insurance companies they represent as well as the claims adjustors.
It’s hard to place a value on that kind of service.
Some retail or local agencies offer a variety of these products as opposed to only one dedicated insurance company.
Fueling Emotion, Frame by Frame: Where Every Detail of every shot tells
In the realm of automotive photography, where precision meets passion, Wolf Motorsports Photography is a distinguished name. Founded by Jeff and Heather Wolf, this venture is more than a business it's a culmination of a lifelong dream and an unwavering dedication to the automotive world.
Jeff Wolf, an ardent hot rod enthusiast, once aspired to work for a car magazine. After having his work published unedited, online for a major magazine, he realized he could chart his own path. This epiphany led to the creation of Wolf Motorsports Media, the parent company encompassing Wolf Motorsports Magazine, its YouTube channel, and the photography division. Their mission is clear: to provide high-quality, emotionally resonant automotive content that captures the essence of the journey.
Wolf Motorsports Photography is renowned for its still-life automotive images that tell a story. Their tagline, "Fueling Emotion, Frame by Frame," encapsulates their approach to photography. Each shot is meticulously crafted to highlight the intricate details and the soul of the machine, offering viewers a window into the automotive journey.
The quality of their work has not gone unnoticed. In the fall of 2023, Wolf Motorsports Photography entered The International Chromatic Color Awards and received an "Honorable Mention" in the "Still Life Amateur" category for their piece titled "Big Block Candy." This accolade underscores their commitment to excellence and their ability to stand out in a competitive field.
Their photography portfolio is a testament to their versatility and artistic vision. From vibrant hues to award-winning compositions, the collection showcases a range of automotive subjects captured in stunning detail. For enthusiasts and collectors, these images are available for purchase in various formats, including prints and magnets, through their online store.
Wolf Motorsports Photography exemplifies the fusion of passion, artistry, and dedication. Through their lens, they not only capture the beauty of automobiles but also tell compelling stories that resonate with enthusiasts worldwide. As they continue to expand their offerings and connect with the community, their work remains a testament to the enduring allure of the automotive journey.
Beyond photography, Wolf Motorsports Media is dedicated to engaging with the automotive community. Their online magazine and YouTube channel offer a wealth of content for car enthusiasts, from in-depth articles to dynamic videos. This multi-platform approach ensures that their passion for automobiles reaches a broad audience.
For more information or to explore their portfolio and pick up a piece today visit Wolf Motorsports Photography at www.wolfmotorsportsphotography.com
While cruising the aisles at this years GNRS, we spotted this killer hot rod build coming together at VEAZIE BROS Fabrications in Pomona CA. GNRS lets builders and car owners display an upcoming build, not in competition, and then they can be entered at the next years show. We LIKE this a lot!
