It Was Great the First Time. Let’s Do It Again!

Blue Oval drivers turned out in force for the Second Annual F-100 Reunion held in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. A total of 503 cool custom trucks passed through the gates to enjoy the event along with all the attractions of Tennessee’s legendary mountain resort. Held at the LeConte Center with air-conditioning inside and spacious display space outside, the event created a family reunion atmosphere where drivers and spectators in this closely knit community enjoyed greeting friends made at similar events over the years. Inspecting the collection of trucks on display and marveling at their ingenuity was a significant part of the fun. The combination of manufacturers and swap meet vendors had a wide selection of new and used parts, vital if you were working on that restoration project back home. 

Dozens of drivers jumped at the chance to participate in Friday afternoon’s Grand National Cruise, led by Show Coordinator Joe Carpenter. The colorful caravan made its way through Tennessee’s scenic mountain roads, creating a rolling truck show for the neighbors. Iceman, the DJ, entertained the crowd throughout the weekend with Golden Oldies along with a heartfelt tribute at noon on Saturday to America’s veterans. The afternoon awards ceremony, held inside the huge LeConte Center conference hall, saw a packed house full of excited enthusiasts admiring the unique collection of red powdercoated laser-cut trophies, provided by show sponsor, Jacky Jones Ford. The Iceman and event creator Pat Ford congratulated the winners and sent many surprised folks home with significant door prizes.

Capturing the coveted Truck of the Year awards were John Arrendale with his KenneBell supercharged “F-1000” along with David Zambon with his Ford Racing 427-equipped, 1953 F-100. John Jinnings was the third winner, pulling a triple crown with his Twin Turbo 1972 Shortbed named “F1K,” earning a class win, Best Ford in a Ford, as well as the third Truck of the Year recipient.

Great sponsors make great events. Special thanks to Dennis Carpenter Ford Restoration Parts and Jacky Jones Ford in Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee. No longer a reunion, the event has been redubbed the “Grand National F-100 Show.” Get the details on next year’s show at www.gnF-100reunion.com.

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