(Photos by Darr Hawthorne) • The inaugural O’Reilly Auto Parts Grand National Truck Show took place at the Fairplex in Pomona on September 16-17. It featured over 400 trucks, vans, and SUVs of various makes, models, and styles. Awards were presented in more than 65 judged classes.
One of the most prestigious awards, the “World’s Most Beautiful Truck Award,” was given to Greg Tidwell for his outstanding 1940 Ford pickup. Built by South City Rod & Custom, it boasts a vintage-styled 450-horsepower stroker 383 Chevy engine with custom sheet metal work, including a 1.5-inch chop, louvered hood and bed panels, sectioned front fenders, reshaped rear fenders, and raised bed wood. The exterior is finished with a stunning coat of Glasurit Ornament Green. Tidwell outshone 17 other custom trucks, spanning from early Fords to late-model Chevys, to claim the $12,500 prize and a custom trophy presented by ARP Fasteners.
In addition to the awards and recognitions, Bob and Kent Matranga from the Matranga Collection received the inaugural “Truck Trend Setter Award” for their significant contributions to the custom truck hobby. Some of the vehicles from their collection were on display throughout the weekend.
The event also featured an outdoor “Truck-In,” which saw more than 200 trucks cruising in on Saturday and Sunday. The weekend showcased over 20 custom vans, with many originating from the 1970s and ’80s, adding to the variety and excitement of the show.
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