F100 Super Nationals
Written by Keith Fudge

“Keep on Truckin’” was a phrase that echoed through the Great Smokey Mountains last May. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, was the home of the 24th Annual F-100 Super Nationals, and Dennis Gage and My Classic Car were on hand to join in on the celebration. The scenic Great Smokey Mountains provided a beautiful backdrop for this event that is billed as “America’s Most Popular Truck Show.” In fact, last year’s event was the biggest and best yet, and Dennis caught up with Pat Ford, the show’s founder, who told him that there were more than 750 trucks registered! Pat also expressed his thanks to all those who were in attendance, especially to those who had traveled from afar! There were Ford “fanatics” from the U.S., Canada, Ecuador, Sweden, and England present at the year’s show, and even the president of the F-100 club in Japan made the trip to East Tennessee!

At this year’s F-100 Super Nationals, one thing was also a sure bet--there was plenty to do! There were vendors galore, activities for seniors and children, and plenty of great food! Workshops on restoration, a “Show N Shine,” and Model Truck and Car Exhibits also provided participants with entertainment, and then there was a “truck parade” that featured more than 500 trucks that rolled through the streets of Pigeon Forge. Dennis became so pumped about Ford trucks while he was talking to Pat that soon nothing else would do except to take a stroll about the grounds and see some of these remarkable vintage Fords.

First, Dennis ran onto James Crowder and his sweet customized 1954 Ford Panel. This ride sported a shade of custom aqua paint and a custom interior. The body had been modified and power was supplied with a 460 cubic inch Lincoln motor. This was one sweet custom ride that gave everyone the feeling of wanting to hit the streets and cruise! Next, Dennis found Don Bratton and his awesome 1956 F-100 Custom. Sporting two-toned paint of black and red, this haulin’ machine is powered by a 1992 5.0 Mustang GT engine. There were plenty of custom features to this Custom such as the incorporation of a 1959 Impala dash (it looked great) and 1992 Cadillac tail lights that were mounted into the fenders of the truck. Talk about a great truck; this one fit the bill!

Set in the breathtaking splendor of the Great Smokey Mountains, the F-100 Super Nationals are a great show for Ford fanatics and families alike. This year’s show will be the 25th Annual event and promises to be better than ever. If you would like more information you can contact Pat Ford Promotions at 704-872-7327, or you can find them on the web at www.f100supernationals.com. So, until our next road trip, remember, “Honor the timeless classics. Happy Motoring!”