Gilroy – Family fun is the destination of the day at the fifth annual Garlic City Fun Run in downtown Gilroy Saturday. Classic car owners will line up their hot rods on Monterey Street between Third and Seventh streets and show off their stuff to local auto enthusiasts.
Carl Swank, president of South Valley Street Rods and a founding member of the club, expects between 330-360 pre-1972 classic cars will be parked for visitors to admire, in between shopping and dining in downtown Gilroy.
Swank and his wife plan to enter two cars in the show. He owns a 1929 Ford Sedan Delivery which he has had for 30 years and his wife also has a 1934 Ford Sedan that will be on display at the show.
One lucky show participant will go home with a motor and transmission. But there is plenty going on for those without a classic car who just want to come out for the fun from 3:30 to 10pm.
“What is nice is the families getting together and having a good time,” Swank said. “Enjoying the beautiful weather at this time of the year.”
Swank will be helping out with a raffle to benefit local charities and welcomes the chance to interact with visitors.
“It’s just a fun time to see people,” said Swank, owner of Gilroy Tire and Brake. “I’ve been in business for 30 years in Gilroy. It’s nice to see [customers] in a different light.”
While families are browsing the autos on display, they can stop by a miniature Gourmet Alley for a sneak preview taste of their favorite Garlic Festival cuisine. Local restaurants will also be open for those looking for a bite to eat.
Sha-boom, a local band specializing in oldies music, will headline at one end of the fairway, on a stage for live music, while a deejay spins tunes at the other end of the street.
Merchants or individuals who want to reward their favorite car of the bunch can purchase a Merchant’s Award before the event. On Saturday, the each merchant will come up with their own criteria and choose their best in show.
The Garlic City Fun Run is sponsored by the South Valley Street Rods, the Gilroy Downtown Business Association and the Gilroy Garlic Festival.
Contact Dave Peoples at 842-6501 for event information and to purchase merchant awards. Contact South Valley Street Rods at 842-6669 or 776-7783 for information on registering a car for the event.
