The Del Mar Nationals are held annually at the historic Del Mar Race Track & Fairgrounds. The Racetrack, constructed in 1936 by the “Thoroughbred Club,” officially opened for the horse racing season in 1937. Attendees for the first race were greeted at the gate by Bing Crosby, a founding partner and stockholder, along with co-owner Pat O’Brien.
The Race Track & Fairgrounds have always been an impressive venue for the numerous events held there over the years, from fairs, concerts, car shows and horse racing. The San Diego County Fair, which moved to the Race Track in 1936, continues to entertain every summer. Along with the Fair, one of the site’s biggest draw remains the Meguiar’s Del Mar Nationals Car show, and this year was no different. The car show has a little bit of everything and something for everyone. There were over 2000 cars and trucks on display at the 2021 event.
Upon entry, one is overwhelmed by the sheer number of hot rods, low riders, custom cars and trucks that cover the quarter-mile midway. Also included are car product vendors. One of the first cars to draw my attention was a 2020 Ford GT. It’s hard to believe that the 1960s Ford GT40, or even the later GT could be outdone, but in its 2020 version, Ford just may have. This particular vehicle is owned by John Ihrig, and is in perfect condition with less than 4,000 miles. John was with his car, of course, as few owners would venture far from this beauty. John turned out to be a great guy, considering he sells insurance for a living. My son and I had a wonderful time chatting with him…if you ever need an honest and friendly insurance agent, John insures classic vehicles. Send him an email at Hisage1@aol.com.
Leaving John, we entered a building housing about 100 cars. They were being judged in various categories—customs from mild to wild, hot rods, originals, and vehicles that are simply outrageous. The design and workmanship are spectacular. Under the “outrageous” category was a blown Ford Anglia. The judges’ choice for best custom went to an Olds Coupe. The detail on the Olds was amazing, and the amount of work that went into this build was beyond compare.
I stopped by a display put together by Steve’s Auto Restoration. There I found a mildly customized ’57 Corvette and a ’33 Ford hotrod. Both were impressive. If all of Steve’s builds and restorations look this good, his shop is worth a visit. If you are in the Oregon, Washington area check Steve's place out. (503) 665-2222
Upon exiting the hall we met Tom and Jan Howarth who own a beautiful ’57 Thunderbird. Jan has always loved the early T-Birds. Tom was telling me that when Jan graduated from school she purchased her first. It was a ’55 T-Bird, one of the first, if not the first, sold in San Diego. We discussed the restoration of the '57 that was aided by the Howarth’s son Todd. They did an impressive job!.
We moved on to the next hall which was filled with low-riders. I am always amazed at how much time and inspiration this level of workmanship requires. All were completely different, and beautiful.
Behind this hall is an autocross track, with all types of cars racing to beat the clock. There was even a Tesla running, with one of the better times. Everyone was having a great time.
The space north of the slalom track is a large lot holding hundreds of cars. Most are not show cars, but appear to be very well-maintained. Some are originals, others tribute cars. Here I spot a ’64 Plymouth Fury SS, 426 max wedge four-speed. The car looks as if it just drove off the dealer’s floor. Nearby sits a ’63 Ford Galaxie 427 FE, again, a four-speed looking like new. There are Woodie’s, a couple of GT-350s, a Pontiac Safari Wagon, and dozens of convertibles—too many to list. It was fantastic walking among all this Detroit Iron.
Heading down the Midway to the gate, I came across a 64 Jeep M677. This I find unique, as I have never seen one, either in pictures or in person. Not stock, but extremely well rehabilitated.
My son and I agree we had a fabulous time—this show does not disappoint!
The show is held yearly at:
The Del Mar Fairgrounds
2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd.
Del Mar, Ca. 92014
I will provide the dates for the 2022 event when they are posted.
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