Sweet cars return to Havre for Hi-Line Cruz n Rod Run
By Ron VandenBoom
The sound of souped-up engines and the gleaming chrome grillwork of modified street rods will be a common sight on the streets this weekend as the Hi-Line Cruz'n Association presents the 15th annual Rod Run.
More the 100 customized and vintage vehicles from throughout Montana and perhaps other Western states and Canada will be part of this year's event, said Craig Otterstrom, organizer of the event.
The theme this year is Mardi Gras, Otterstrom said. "So don't be surprised if you see some large brimmed hats or other outrageous costumes."
The event begins Friday with registration from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Beaver Creek Golf Course west of Havre. The cost is $35 for couples and $25 for singles.
The registration fee will cover all banquets, scheduled events and qualification for awards.
A barbecue and golf cart obstacle course races will be part of the Friday activities.
The festivities continue Saturday with late registration from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Havre High School practice field and the Show 'n Shine from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Otterstrom, who is circulation manager for the Havre Daily News, said the Show 'n Shine is open to the public and anyone wanting to show off their vehicle is allowed to participate. A $5 registration fee will be charged to anyone wanting to enter their special dream machine in the public show.
There is no charge to anyone wanting to view the public show.
"It's a great opportunity for the people to see the cars and talk to the owners," Otterstrom said. "It's fun for us, too, to be able to compare notes and see what some of the other owners have done with their cars."
An independent panel of judges also will be checking out the cars for awards that will be presented later at the evening banquet.
Following the Show 'n Shine, registered members will participate in a Poker Run through Beaver Creek Park.
Otterstrom explained that each participant will be given a map that has five stops marked off. At each stop, the driver will select a card from a deck. At the end of the run, the driver with the best poker hand will win prizes.
The annual banquet and dance is planned following the Poker Run at the Hill County Fairgrounds. The Kirt Miller Band is scheduled to perform.
Otterstrom said this is the event where the Mardi Gras theme will be most evident.
"People dress up in their costumes and you're apt to see just about anything," he said.
Cash awards for the best costume will be awarded during the banquet, as will the Show 'n Shine trophies.
A continental breakfast will be provided to participants on Sunday morning at the fairgrounds as the car enthusiasts say their final farewell before heading home.
