Events

2018 SEMA SHOW COVERAGE!!

By Chris Hamilton

February 26, 2019

When the Rest of the Industry Gets to Meet the Best in the Industry

CANDICE WHEELER BROUGHT OUT HER ONE OF A KIND CUSTOM C10 SPORTING SOME UNIQUE COLORS. LOVE THE LOOK AND CAN’T WAIT TO GET IT IN PRINT.

It may surprise you, but as the editor-in-chief of the nation’s largest custom truck magazine, this was actually my first trip to the world-famous SEMA show in Las Vegas. Throughout the many years in the automotive industry, my trips to this must-see event were always cut short for one reason or another, but not this year. Ten days at the Trump International Hotel right on the Vegas strip and special “SEMA Media” credentials that let us in two hours early should have been plenty of time to see the whole event, right? No … no, not at all.

If you plan to attend this unbelievable yearly event for your first time in 2019, do yourself a favor and concede to the fact that you’re not going to see it all. If you go there with this in mind, you should have plenty of time to appreciate quality over quantity. Sure, there are only three massive two-story convention centers full of some of the most unbelievable rides you will probably ever see in your life, but even the parking lots surrounding these convention centers were loaded with one dream build after another. The few times we actually were not staring at custom trucks, we would see industry celebrities in every corner including Stacey David, Jesse James, Aaron Kaufman, Chip Foose and Noah Alexander. After speaking with a few of them, I can tell you that if time was unlimited and free, they would talk to each and every one of you all day long. They love this scene as much as we do; they just happen to be better at showing it, that’s all.

One of the exciting things we had on our schedule throughout the week was the one-on-one meetings with top manufacturers in our industry. We were able to pick the brains of some powerful people, which leads to amazing editorial for the fans in the future. Look out for some new interesting articles as we team up with brands like Vintage Air, Eddie Motorsports, Alden American, Toyo Tires, ATC Truck Covers and Bed Wood and Parts, just to name a few. The words are cool but the pics are cooler so check them out and read some captions to help you feel like you were there. See you next year!

MIKE ALEXANDER AND THE CREW AT FLO AIRRIDE KILLED IT WITH THIS AMAZING F-100 ON A GSI CHASSIS. MORE TO COME ON THIS ONE—WE PROMISE.
SYNDICATE SERIES 02 WAS UNVEILED LIVE FROM SEMA ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL AND WE CAN’T THANK THE SQUAREBODY SYNDICATE ENOUGH FOR THE OPPORTUNITY. LOOK FOR THIS BEAUTIFUL TRUCK IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF “STREET TRUCKS.”
TONY’S C10 WAS ON ANOTHER LEVEL WITH CARBON FIBER EVERYWHERE. COUNT ON THIS ONE TO BE IN THE NEXT “C10 BUILDER’S GUIDE.”
BELLTECH SHOWED OFF THIS SWEET 2019 CHEVY SILVERADO CUSTOMIZED TO MATCH THEIR SIGNATURE LOOK. ROCKING ONE OF THEIR SPORT SUSPENSION KITS ON 26-INCH WHEELS. WE LOVE THE STANCE AND THE PAINTED ACCENTS.
TRE-5 CUSTOMS KNOWS NO LIMITS AND THEIR C10 SUBURBAN PROVES THAT POINT LOUD AND CLEAR.
MIKE BARCIA FINALLY LET THE WORLD SEE HIS MASTERPIECE AND THIS WAS NO LET DOWN. WE COVERED THE BUILD IN PREVIOUS ISSUES, BUT STAY TUNED FOR THE FULL FEATURE COMING SOON.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What Entertainment Was Provided at the 2018 Las Vegas Super Show?

The 2018 Las Vegas Super Show offered an exhilarating experience for car enthusiasts and attendees alike. Among the highlights were the prestigious vehicle titles up for grabs, celebrating the finest in lowriders, bombs, and trucks.

Lowrider of the Year

Bobby Garza secured the Lowrider of the Year title with his magnificent 1957 convertible Bel Air, affectionately named “Double Trouble.” The competition was fierce, with Jesse Saldana’s 1965 Impala Super Sport capturing third place and the distinguished Lowrider Excellence award.

Bomb of the Year

The Bomb of the Year category saw all top honors going to California entrants. Bernardo Casian showcased his impeccable 1950 Chevy DeLuxe, earning the top spot. Frank Calderon’s 1942 Chevy, dubbed “Captain ’42,” and Ron Maypin’s 1948 Chevy also made impressive showings, securing second and third place, respectively.

Truck of the Year

In a thrilling turn, Gene Bare added Truck of the Year to his collection of accolades with his 1992 Silverado, “The Antidote.” The competition remained robust with Sal Sierra’s 1936 Ford truck and Bobby Enz’s 1950 Chevy 3100 rounding out the top three.

Traditional Class

The Traditional class was dominated by 1959 models this year. Rudy Trevino’s 1959 Impala convertible, “Cloud 9,” snagged the Traditional of the Year title, closely followed by Quinten Allen’s splendidly gold-plated vehicle.

Club Participation

Car clubs were out in force, adding to the spectacle and camaraderie of the event. The Uniques Car Club, for instance, brought an impressive 47 entries, earning them the award for most car members in attendance.

Additional Entertainment

Beyond the vehicle showcases, the Super Show included live performances, DJ sets, and interactive booths, offering a multi-sensory experience for all attendees. The blend of music, craftsmanship, and community spirit made the 2018 Las Vegas Super Show a must-visit for anyone passionate about automotive culture.

 

How Did the Organizers Address Issues from the 2018 Las Vegas Super Show?

To enhance the overall experience, organizers opted for the Las Vegas Convention Center. This choice not only heightened the event’s ambiance but also provided a crucial respite from the sweltering 100-plus degree heat. Both attendees and sponsors were relieved to have an indoor venue.

Despite some initial issues during the staging process this year, these have since been resolved. Organizers are confident that next year’s event will run smoothly, ensuring an even better experience for everyone involved.

 

Which car clubs had the most members present at the 2018 Las Vegas Super Show?

Car Clubs with the Most Members at the 2018 Las Vegas Super Show

At the 2018 Las Vegas Super Show, several car clubs made a grand impression with their large turnouts. Among the most notable were:

Each of these clubs showed up in full force, reflecting their strong community and commitment to the car culture. Uniques Car Club, however, stood out by bringing the highest number of participants, underscoring their prominence within the scene.

 

Which car clubs were prominently featured at the 2018 Las Vegas Super Show?

Prominently Featured Car Clubs at the 2018 Las Vegas Super Show

The 2018 Las Vegas Super Show highlighted several car clubs, each showcasing their unique styles and impressive line-ups. Among the standout participants were:

Despite the strong presence from these groups, Uniques Car Club stole the spotlight, winning the award for the most car members with 47 entries.

 

Why Was a New Venue Chosen for the Super Show?

Choosing the new venue for the Super Show was a strategic move to significantly enhance the overall experience for both attendees and sponsors. The primary reasons centered around creating a more comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere.

Firstly, the move brought the event indoors, safeguarding everyone from extreme outdoor temperatures that often exceed 100 degrees. This shift was a much-needed relief, ensuring a more pleasant and safer environment.

Additionally, the new location offers a state-of-the-art facility with advanced amenities that cater to the various needs of such a large-scale event. Despite a few initial staging issues, these have now been resolved, promising a smoother and more efficient event for the upcoming year.

In summary, the decision was driven by the necessity to provide a cooler, more comfortable setting and leverage better infrastructure to enhance the overall quality of the Super Show.

 

Who won the Traditional of the Year title in 2018?

In 2018, Rudy Trevino clinched the Traditional of the Year title with his immaculate 1959 Impala convertible, fondly dubbed ‘Cloud 9’. This vehicle stood out among its peers, securing the top spot in this prestigious category. Meanwhile, Quinten Allen’s striking gold-plated car earned him a commendable second place.

 

What cars did Chris Roark win titles with?

Chris Roark’s Winning Cars: A Breakdown

Chris Roark has an impressive history of securing titles in car competitions. He achieved significant acclaim by winning multiple Lowrider of the Year titles. After securing his third title with a car named “Final Score,” he shifted his attention to the Original class category.

Here are the cars that brought him victories:

Additionally, Frank Torres achieved Third Place with his 1955 Bel Air convertible, showcasing the competitive nature of these events.

Roark’s versatile achievements across different car classes, including Traditional, Bomb, and Original, underscore his dedication and skill in the automotive world.

 

Who captured the Original class title in 2018?

In 2018, Chris Roark achieved notable success in the lowrider community by capturing the Original class title. He secured this prestigious win with his meticulously restored 1957 Bel Air. Known for his consistent excellence, Roark not only earned the top position but also claimed Second Place in the same year with his 1958 Impala. This remarkable feat underscores his dedication and skill in the art of lowrider customization.

 

What were the second and third place winners in the Truck of the Year category?

Truck of the Year: Second and Third Place Winners

In the Truck of the Year category, the second place accolade went to Sal Sierra, who showcased a meticulously restored 1936 Ford truck. Coming in third was Bobby Enz, who impressed the judges with his classic 1950 Chevy 3100.

 

Who won the Truck of the Year title in 2018?

Truck of the Year 2018 Winner

In 2018, the coveted Truck of the Year title was awarded to Gene Bare for his exceptional 1992 Silverado, affectionately known as “The Antidote.” This recognition adds to Bare’s impressive collection of accolades, which already includes six titles for Bomb of the Year.

 

How long has the Las Vegas Super Show been a mainstay in Vegas?

The Las Vegas Super Show has been a prominent fixture in the city since its inception in 1998.

 

Which cars and owners won second and third place in the Bomb of the Year category?

Winners of Second and Third Place in the ‘Bomb of the Year’ Category

Second Place:

Third Place:

Frank Calderon’s 1942 Chevy, affectionately known as “Captain ’42,” secured second place after making a notable impression at the Denver show. Meanwhile, Ron Maypin’s 1948 Chevy clinched third place, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship and style.

 

Who won the Bomb of the Year title in 2018?

In 2018, the Bomb of the Year title was awarded to Bernardo Casian, a proud member of the Uniques Car Club. He won with his meticulously restored 1950 Chevy DeLuxe.

 

What car did Bobby Garza win Lowrider of the Year with in 2018?

In 2018, Bobby Garza clinched the Lowrider of the Year title with his meticulously crafted 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass, which belongs to the RM Series.

 

Who won the Lowrider of the Year title in 2018?

In 2018, Bobby Garza clinched the Lowrider of the Year title with his stunning 1957 convertible Bel Air, known as ‘Double Trouble.’ This marked his second win, having first earned the title four years prior with his 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. Additionally, Garza’s Cutlass secured second place in the same competition, showcasing his continued dominance in the lowrider scene. The third-place spot was claimed by Jesse Saldana’s 1965 Impala Super Sport, making it a memorable year for all contestants.

 

What were some of the highlights of the 2018 Las Vegas Super Show?

CANDICE WHEELER BROUGHT OUT HER ONE OF A KIND CUSTOM C10 SPORTING SOME UNIQUE COLORS. LOVE THE LOOK AND CAN’T WAIT TO GET IT IN PRINT.

One of the exciting things we had on our schedule throughout the week was the one-on-one meetings with top manufacturers in our industry. We were able to pick the brains of some powerful people, which leads to amazing editorial for the fans in the future. Look out for some new interesting articles as we team up with brands like Vintage Air, Eddie Motorsports, Alden American, Toyo Tires, ATC Truck Covers and Bed Wood and Parts, just to name a few. The words are cool but the pics are cooler so check them out and read some captions to help you feel like you were there. See you next year!

Highlights from the 2018 Las Vegas Super Show

Gene Bare, already renowned for his six Bomb of the Year titles, can now add “Truck of the Year” to his accolades with his 1992 Silverado, affectionately named ‘The Antidote.’ Following closely, Sal Sierra’s 1936 Ford truck from Royalistics took Second Place, while Bobby Enz’s 1950 Chevy 3100 of the Uniques captured Third.

Chris Roark, a familiar name in the lowriding community, added another feather to his cap. After securing multiple consecutive titles for Lowrider of the Year, he shifted focus to the Original class. His 1957 Bel Air earned him the title, and his 1958 Impala clinched Second Place. Frank Torres of USO rounded out the top three with his 1955 Bel Air convertible.

In the Traditional class, 1959s stole the spotlight. Rudy Trevino’s ‘Cloud 9,’ a 1959 Impala convertible, was crowned Traditional of the Year. Quinten Allen’s gold-plated ride came in Second. Various car clubs, including USO, High Class, Originals, Klique, Nokturnal, Rollerz Only, Techniques, and Goodtimes, showed up in force, but it was Uniques Car Club that took home the most car members award with an astounding 47 entries.

MIKE ALEXANDER AND THE CREW AT FLO AIRRIDE KILLED IT WITH THIS AMAZING F-100 ON A GSI CHASSIS. MORE TO COME ON THIS ONE—WE PROMISE.

SYNDICATE SERIES 02 WAS UNVEILED LIVE FROM SEMA ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL AND WE CAN’T THANK THE SQUAREBODY SYNDICATE ENOUGH FOR THE OPPORTUNITY. LOOK FOR THIS BEAUTIFUL TRUCK IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF “STREET TRUCKS.”

TONY’S C10 WAS ON ANOTHER LEVEL WITH CARBON FIBER EVERYWHERE. COUNT ON THIS ONE TO BE IN THE NEXT “C10 BUILDER’S GUIDE.”

BELLTECH SHOWED OFF THIS SWEET 2019 CHEVY SILVERADO CUSTOMIZED TO MATCH THEIR SIGNATURE LOOK. ROCKING ONE OF THEIR SPORT SUSPENSION KITS ON 26-INCH WHEELS. WE LOVE THE STANCE AND THE PAINTED ACCENTS.

TRE-5 CUSTOMS KNOWS NO LIMITS AND THEIR C10 SUBURBAN PROVES THAT POINT LOUD AND CLEAR.

MIKE BARCIA FINALLY LET THE WORLD SEE HIS MASTERPIECE AND THIS WAS NO LET DOWN. WE COVERED THE BUILD IN PREVIOUS ISSUES, BUT STAY TUNED FOR THE FULL FEATURE COMING SOON.

 

What makes the Las Vegas Super Show a unique experience?

“If you plan to attend this unbelievable yearly event for your first time in 2019, do yourself a favor and concede to the fact that you’re not going to see it all. If you go there with this in mind, you should have plenty of time to appreciate quality over quantity. Sure, there are only three massive two-story convention centers full of some of the most unbelievable rides you will probably ever see in your life, but even the parking lots surrounding these convention centers were loaded with one dream build after another. The few times we actually were not staring at custom trucks, we would see industry celebrities in every corner including Stacey David, Jesse James, Aaron Kaufman, Chip Foose and Noah Alexander. After speaking with a few of them, I can tell you that if time was unlimited and free, they would talk to each and every one of you all day long. They love this scene as much as we do; they just happen to be better at showing it, that’s all.

Attending the Super Show is more than just about the vehicles—it’s an experience that envelops you in a whirlwind of emotions and social connections. This event has become a destination that provides a mind-numbing, gut-wrenching experience that’s best celebrated with friends and family. Whether you’re partying on rooftops, hitting the strip, or even the strip club, the excitement is palpable everywhere.

For me, the journey begins on Fremont Street, where I get wasted with friends from all across the globe. It’s a ritual celebrated in many different formats, and this diversity is what makes the Super Show truly unique. You don’t just see spectacular rides; you live an experience that combines the thrill of incredible vehicles with the joy of shared moments.

Key Highlights:

So, if you’re planning to attend, remember to savor the quality over the quantity. Enjoy the cars, the celebrities, the atmosphere, and most importantly, the connections you make along the way. This is what makes the Las VegasSuper Show an unmissable event for any automotive enthusiast.”

 

What is the Las Vegas Super Show?

It may surprise you, but as the editor-in-chief of the nation’s largest custom truck magazine, this was actually my first trip to the world-famous SEMA show in Las Vegas. Throughout the many years in the automotive industry, my trips to this must-see event were always cut short for one reason or another, but not this year. Ten days at the Trump International Hotel right on the Vegas strip and special “SEMA Media” credentials that let us in two hours early should have been plenty of time to see the whole event, right?

No … no, not at all. If you plan to attend this unbelievable yearly event for your first time in 2019, do yourself a favor and concede to the fact that you’re not going to see it all. If you go there with this in mind, you should have plenty of time to appreciate quality over quantity. Sure, there are only three massive two-story convention centers full of some of the most unbelievable rides you will probably ever see in your life, but even the parking lots surrounding these convention centers were loaded with one dream build after another.

The few times we actually were not staring at custom trucks, we would see industry celebrities in every corner including Stacey David, Jesse James, Aaron Kaufman, Chip Foose, and Noah Alexander. After speaking with a few of them, I can tell you that if time was unlimited and free, they would talk to each and every one of you all day long. They love this scene as much as we do; they just happen to be better at showing it, that’s all.

To truly understand the essence of the Las Vegas Super Show, you need to immerse yourself in the local culture. This event isn’t just about the automotive marvels—it’s a celebration that spans the entire city. Some attendees take to the rooftops to party, while others prefer the neon glow of the strip. There are even those who hit the strip clubs for a different kind of spectacle.

For me, the adventure began on Fremont Street, where I joined friends from around the globe. The camaraderie, the shared passion for all things automotive, and yes, the occasional drink, create an atmosphere that is electric and unparalleled. It’s a ritual celebrated in many formats, each adding its own flavor to the grand mosaic that is the Super Show.

So, whether you’re there to marvel at the custom trucks or to soak in the vibrant nightlife, remember that this event offers something for everyone. The Las Vegas Super Show is a mind-numbing, gut-wrenching experience best celebrated with friends and family, and it promises memories that will last a lifetime.

 

What is the starting point or tradition for some attendees?

A common tradition for some attendees is starting off their experience by heading to Fremont Street and enjoying drinks with friends.

 

What is the global appeal of the Las Vegas Super Show?

The event attracts a global audience, with attendees coming from all across the world to join the festivities.

 

How do people celebrate the Las Vegas Super Show?

Celebrations take various forms, including partying on rooftops, hitting the strip, and visiting strip clubs, showcasing the diverse activities attendees engage in.

 

Who typically celebrates the Las Vegas Super Show?

The event is typically celebrated with friends and family, emphasizing a communal and social atmosphere.

 

What kind of experience does the Las Vegas Super Show provide?

The Las Vegas Super Show offers an intense and emotionally impactful experience, described as both “mind-numbing” and “gut-wrenching.”