Browse
Log in / Register
Share
The 28th annual Blast from the Past car show, organized by the Oceanside Idlers Car Club, brought classic and vintage vehicle owners together under overcast skies on Saturday, June 13, 2026. Despite the cooler weather, attendance remained strong as enthusiasts and families flocked to the Coombs Fairgrounds to admire hundreds of restored automobiles.
The event, which has grown into a beloved tradition in the region, showcased vehicles spanning nearly a century of automotive history. Club president Mark Henderson noted that this year’s turnout exceeded expectations. “We saw more than 200 registered cars and thousands of visitors,” he said. “The cloudy conditions actually worked in our favor—no overheating engines and comfortable strolling conditions for everyone.”
Winners Across Two Dozen Categories
Judges evaluated entries on originality, condition, and historical significance. The top honor, Best in Show, went to Al Lamont’s pristine 1928 Model A Sedan. Lamont, a retired mechanic from Nanaimo, spent five years restoring the vehicle to factory specifications. “It’s a piece of American history,” he said. “Every bolt tells a story.”
The People’s Choice award, determined by attendee votes, was captured by Ron Roach’s 1946 Chevrolet Rat Rod Pickup. The creatively customized truck drew crowds with its exposed mechanicals and rumble.
Other category winners included:
A Showcase for Generations
The Blast from the Past show has become a gathering point for car lovers of all ages. Families brought children to see cars their grandparents once drove, while younger owners displayed modern classics like the Dodge Challenger. The event also featured live music, food vendors, and a swap meet where enthusiasts traded parts and memorabilia.
Organizers emphasized the economic and cultural impact of such gatherings. The Coombs Fairgrounds reported a boost in local business activity, with nearby hotels and restaurants seeing increased traffic over the weekend.
Looking Ahead
The Oceanside Idlers Car Club is already planning next year’s event, which will mark the 29th edition. Henderson hinted at new judging categories and a potential expansion to include more imports and modern custom builds. “We want to keep the show fresh while honoring the traditions that got us here,” he said.
For those who missed this year’s show, a gallery of winning vehicles and highlights will be posted on the club’s website in the coming days. The Blast from the Past remains a must-attend for anyone passionate about automotive history and preservation.
