If you're an enthusiast, you probably already know about the F-100 Supernationals in Knoxville, Tennessee. Now in its 31st year, the event has become the gathering place for vintage Ford fans, attracting drivers from as far away as California and Washington and spectators from around the world. Under the guiding hand of Pat Ford and family since its inception, the event is under new management. Pat has decided to retire and has placed the event in the capable hands of his good friend of almost 20 years, Charlie Cobble. Charlie assisted Pat when the event was relocating to Pigeon Forge several years ago and Charlie has been an active show promoter in his own right for the last 25 years. Although he might be new to some of the F-100 community, Charlie is not new to the scene, with this year's F-100 show marking his 100th career event.
The Thursday-through-Saturday get-together, held in Knoxville's scenic Chillhowee Park, went off without a hitch. From the free Hawaiian luau on Thursday evening to the Elvis concert at the Saturday evening awards ceremony, there was plenty to see and do. More than 300 vendor spaces, indoors and out, were filled with all the latest upgrades for your truck. Spectators got a close look at the Black Oval, a project truck that will be given away at the 2010 F-100 Supernationals. Vehicle parades throughout the weekend showcased the different years of Fords on hand. Held in the park's open amphitheater, the awards ceremony sent more than 240 drivers home with trophies, serving as permanent reminders of the fun weekend. Although the weather at the park was quite good, it was unfortunate that heavy thunderstorm predictions kept many drivers at home. Special thanks go to Dennis Carpenter for his unwavering support of this event. Learn more about next year's show at www.f100supernationals.com.
Here's our good buddy Pat...
Here's our good buddy Pat Ford handing the Grand Prize trophy to 2009 winners Steve and Becky Haeffley for their '56 F-100.
Herb Shields rolled his super...
Herb Shields rolled his super clean silver and pink '56 F-100 small-window in from West Milton, OH.
Equipped with a Power Stroke...
Equipped with a Power Stroke Diesel, this Raven Black '56 Ford C600 is the king of all COEs.
Kirk Johnson has owned this...
Kirk Johnson has owned this silver GT F-100, as he calls it, since high school.
Under the hood is a fire-breathing...
Under the hood is a fire-breathing 468-inch FE motor.
With a blown 460-inch Ford...
With a blown 460-inch Ford putting out over 540 ponies, Ed Gerritsen's Pro Street-style F-1 is a show-stopper. The rear meats are 20 inches wide. Yikes!