EVENT COVERAGE – Grand National F-100 Reunion

SOLOMON LUNGER . September 24, 2019 . Events

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Pigeon Forge Brings Out the Best

The Grand National F-100 Reunion truck show has found a home at the Pigeon Forge LeConte Center located in the beautiful Smokey Mountains of Tennessee. This past May was the second annual event which drew over 500 classic Ford trucks 1979 and older. Trucks from all over the US and Canada attended the three-day event. This all F-100 event is one of the largest of its kind, and organizers do a great job putting the emphasis on the awesome truckers from all over out there building their trucks and supporting fellow enthusiasts.

The most popular vendors from all over the US and Canada were there showing off the latest in Crown Vic, Coyote, suspension and complete custom frame swaps. Any part, whether new or used, was available to purchase on the spot from dozens of new parts vendors in the convention center and swap meet vendors outside. There was so much to see and cool folks to talk to from all parts of the country.

On Friday, trucks lined up for the Grand National Cruise through the Smokies. More than 100 trucks participated in the hour-long cruise through the national park and scenic Gatlinburg back to Pigeon Forge. Saturday afternoon featured the award ceremony where truckers were recognized for their cool rides in each category. The top three “Trucks of the Year” were awarded special trophies for their accomplishments. Davis Zambon and his beautiful 1953, John Jennings and his turbocharged 1972, and John Arrendale with his high performance inspired 1950 took away these top honors. Two special awards recognizing Pat Ford’s lovely daughter Brett and brother Dan Ford were also awarded. Charlie Hamilton won the “Incredible Youth” award for being a fine young man and loving the classic truck hobby. Joseph Carpenter was recognized for the positive work he has done over several years to benefit the F-100 Show.

Plans for next year began as soon as the parking lot was emptied. The good news is the LeConte Center is allowing the show to double the outside show space for 2020. This means more trucks, more room for tents and more swap meet vendors. Next year the show will extend the invitation all the way up to 1996 Ford F-150 trucks. So, all Ford trucks built in 1996 and older are welcome to attend. Make your plans early, pre-register and get your hotel accommodations now for next year. The Grand National F-100 Show will be bigger and better than ever. See you all there next year!