In preparation for the 43rd annual Cañon Car Club Car Show, scheduled to take place from early morning until early afternoon on June 14 at the Abbey grounds, organizers are making final arrangements. This year’s event promises a dazzling array of supercharged engines, vintage hot rods, and cherished classics. Entry remains free and open to the public, with an exciting lineup of prizes, both monetary and material, up for grabs throughout the day. Among the highlights is the featured vehicle, a meticulously preserved 1971 Ford Maverick Grabber owned by Wayne and Paula Nielsen.
A Celebration of Automotive Excellence in Canon City
On a picturesque day in mid-June, car enthusiasts from all over the country will gather at the Abbey grounds in Canon City for the 43rd edition of the Cañon Car Club Car Show. The event, running from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., showcases a diverse collection of vehicles, ranging from high-octane superchargers to beloved family heirlooms. Notably, this year's star attraction is the 1971 Ford Maverick Grabber, which has remained within the Nielsen family since its production in 1970. Wayne Nielsen, originally a motorcycle enthusiast who transitioned into classic car ownership after acquiring the Maverick in 2010, spent much of the pandemic rebuilding the car's engine with meticulous care.
The show expects around 300 cars to grace the grounds, with registration still open until the day itself. Attendees will enjoy refreshments provided by several food trucks while supporting Fremont Regional Hospice through combined auction, raffle, and merchant donations. A special picnic for entrants precedes the main event on Friday evening, adding to the festivities.
As a journalist covering this event, one cannot help but marvel at the dedication and passion that drives collectors like Wayne Nielsen. His journey from motorcycles to classic cars exemplifies how hobbies evolve yet remain deeply rooted in personal history. This gathering serves as a testament to the enduring allure of automobiles, uniting people across generations in their shared appreciation for engineering artistry and timeless design. It also highlights the generous spirit of the community, channeling proceeds towards meaningful causes such as local hospices and youth organizations.