Photos and Text by Mashie Mihalko

The 73rd Grand National Roadster Show was held at the Fairplex in Pomona, CA. This car show is known as” The Grand Daddy of Them All.” Thousands of car people visited the fairgrounds under sunny skies and comfortable temperatures. The three day event had seven buildings filled with a variety of vehicles. There was a class of vehicles for every one’s interest: classics, customs, street and rat rods, boats, trucks, hot rods, low riders, vans, motorcycles, and antiques. Surrounding the buildings were over a thousand cruise in cars filling all available spaces.

Entertainment was present throughout the facility by a DJ, outside and indoor bands playing a mix of music enjoyed by car people. A model car contest was held with a variety of entries in numerous categories. The attendees were also able to view the merchandise of vendors providing both car related and non automotive items. A pin stripper’s charity auction was held with the proceeds presented to a local charity..The artists donated their time and talent to produce unique items to be auctioned off.

Autograph sessions were held with TV personality Stacey David, host of “Trucks“ and hot rod industry icon, Ed “Isky “ Iskenderian.

The highlight of the car show was the presentation of the winners of the America’s Most Beautiful Roadster Award and the Al Slonaker Memorial Award. Jack Chisenhall won the AMBR award with his 1932 Ford roadster . His name will be etched on the perpetual 9.5 ft. trophy. George Eliacostas garnered the Al Slonaker Memorial Award with his 1960 Buick Invicta. The Slonaker award is given to a non-roadster entry and the finalist’s name is inscribed on a perpetual custom made billet trophy. Chisenhall and Eliacostas were also recipients of $12,500 checks for their efforts. The Grand National Roadster Show is a must-see for all car people.

For more of Mashie’s images from the show, go to