(Words and photos by Justin Oney) – 2013 Was a busy year. I made it to quite a few shows this year and it was a first time visit to many of them. The pictures here either fit what I thought was a great photo or a photo that reminds me of the great memories I have of the year’s travel. (Editor’s note: Justin submitted a great many photos from all around the country this year and we’re glad to highlight his best stuff here. Like all of our guys, Justin has diverse and cool automotive interests that translate into great photos and a cool perspective on all thing automotive. As we like to say, all of these photos are 100% BangShift approved!)

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ON TO THE PHOTOS!

January 2013 – Grand National Roadster Show

This one is grand! The way they break the cars into different categories such as the Suede Palace, etc. makes this an easy show to see more of what you like. One of my favorite memories this year was that I was able to put a face with the name of a gentleman (John Sarena) that helped put me in touch with the previous owner of my 55 Chevy that as you can imagine provided 30+ years of history and amazingly the original plates (California) to the car. My pick for AMBR was this full fendered jobber from Hot Rods of Andice. Fire, well you can’t go wrong with fire.

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March 2013 – Detroit Autorama

Memories…wait what?!?  From the Southern border of the US to the Northern border and back in 72hrs.  We partied like rock stars and my body fought back and won.  1^st time to Detroit the cars were amazing and the beer was cold.  The basement holds some of the most beautiful cars at the show that included Jason Grahams 41 Willys and the Iron Orchid ’34 that helped jumpstart my desire to delve into 60’s lace, candy and panel paint.

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April 2013 – Goodguys Del Mar Nationals

Mention California to the wife and I have to add car show or not she’s going.  Located in the San Diego area and just a hop skip and jump from the beach it’s shows like this that make me wish I’d allow more days to take in the sunshine and scenery instead of the typical show and go.  The pros and amateurs at the autocross make me hope for a chance at ride along sometime… Hint… Hint

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July 2013 – Goodguys Columbus Nationals

The Mega Show with 7000+/- cars. I try to make this one every year.  The weather this year was great and didn’t melt the tires into the fresh asphalt as the prior year did and as always there are awesome cars of every flavor your heart may desire.  Two of my favorite shots this year came from this show both of which are included here.  The B-17 was a surprise flyover and I clicked away hoping for the best, the second is the Kosmic Outkast; Trumpets.  If you can only make one show a year, try this one on for size.

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September 2013 – Hot Rod Dragweek Day 5

One year I’ll make a full run at this even if I can only manage to bum a ride along with someone.  This year I was able to catch the grand finale and final day at Beech Bend Raceway.  I met some great people from the Boroughs of Philly, and the Taylor family out of Arkansas who impress me and inspire me in many ways.  Great people and fantastic cars IS the recipe for a good time!

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October 2013 – El Paso Motorplex Racewars II

Hometown El Paso, Texas!

These three pictures are from my hometown track.  The Camaro and roadster owners/drivers are close friends so these two shoots are also a couple of favorites.  The Mopar shows a touch of the beautiful sunsets we enjoy regularly out here in west Texas.  

Here’s to fantastic 2013 that has now come to an end and hoping for a healthy and prosperous 2014 for all the BangShift family that I’ve met this year and those I hope to meet this coming year.  

If you see me at a show stop me and say Hi!