BRISTOL — Classic car owners were in for a treat at the 12th annual Better L8 Than Never car show, held on Sept. 25 in Bristol. The event is co-hosted by the Addison County Chamber of Commerce and the Snake Mountain Cruisers, a Vermont classic car club based in New Haven.
Perhaps it was the warm weather and clear skies, or else just the draw of the slick lines and careful care of some of the nicest classic cars in the area,
but either way turnout this year was terrific. According to Chamber president Sue Hoxie, the car show welcomed a record-setting 260 vintage and customized vehicles this year and an estimated 500 spectators.
The event is a fundraiser for Camp Ta-Kum-Ta, a camp for children who have or have had cancer and their families. Funds are raised through a raffle, bake sale and donations from participants and spectators of the show and this year amounted to more than $3,000.
At the show, vehicles were displayed by make, model and year and judged on a variety of categories. In addition to the Snake Mountain Cruisers, the show attracted other classic car clubs from around the state and region.
Hoxie said they were very pleased with the event’s attendance and are happy to be a part of an event that brings people together in Addison County, particularly when it can help benefit another local organization.
“The car show and town wide festivals have wide appeal, are family friendly and free for attendees,” she said. “Both residents and visitors find them worthwhile — visiting with friends and neighbors or appreciating why Vermont is such a lovely place to visit or live.”   Who wouldn’t love a shiny red 1958 Chevy Corvette convertible? Hugh Bargiel from Vergennes is the lucky owner of this beauty, on display at the recent Better L8 Than Never car show in Bristol. Bargiel’s ride was one of the Top 30 picks at this year’s show.