21st Annual O'Reilly Auto Parts Street Machine Nationals
September 11th - 13th
With inclement weather attempting to play havoc during the 21st Annual O'Reilly Auto Parts Street Machine Nationals held at the Arkansas State Fairgrounds September 11-13 did not stop car enthusiasts from cruisin' into The Rock to attend the national event! The participants enjoyed our southern hospitality not only at the fairground but also in the River Market District and West Little Rock.
As a bonus event for the national attendees, we hosted Cruisapalooza on Friday evening, which we kicked off with a parade of vehicles from the fairgrounds to the River Market District and Riverfront Park. These spectacular automobiles were greeted by hundreds of spectators who had been patiently waiting along the parade route with their cameras in hand. As the parade approached President Clinton Avenue another large number of spectators were there to greet all as they turned into the park. At that point you realized that Riverfront Park and River Market District was busting at the seams with vehicles, participants and spectators who were ready to enjoy the evening.
Mayor Mark Stodola welcomed all and opened the event with a moment of silence to honor all those that lost their lives during 911. Lisa Simmons then sang the National Anthem. The evening celebration continued with entertainment by Tony Witt-A Tribute to Elvis and CRISIS, our very own southern rock band! All of the little ones enjoyed getting their faces painted and watching Derrick Rose The Magic Man, and Jim Tindall Artistry create awesome caricatures.
A special thank you to the Arkansas Pontiac Association for their never-ending ability to provide all of the volunteer hours needed to ensure the event was successful and to John Oxner, President of the StangGang who provided the support for registration at the fairgrounds.
We have downloaded photos from the event for all to enjoy.
If you were not able to attend this year's event, make sure you mark your calendars for next September when the O'Reilly Auto Parts Fall Street Machine Nationals returns to The Rock!
Thanks to all, Hot Rod Mama
Click here to view the Street Machine Nationals 2009 Photos