YORK, Pa. — Hot, muggy July weather circled the York, Pennsylvania fairgrounds over the weekend like some sort of fiery albatross, but it didn't seem to dampen the spirits of all those who attended the 24th annual PA Jeeps All Breeds Jeep show. In fact, most wore it like a badge of honor as they roamed the event and checked out the respective vendors.
Hydration was the key, and the crew at PA Jeeps set out plenty of water bottles, a misting tent and constantly asked attendees to spend some time in the shade to cool down. Many vendors, including Quadratec, had covered tents to help ease everyone's time in the sun as well. Once again, the scratch and dent section of Quadratec's huge white tent saw plenty of action as people flocked to see what kind of deals were available on parts like bumpers, side bars, hoods, radiatorsradiators, tire carriers, driveshafts, ring and pinion sets, and even wheels. Others spent time on the new product side where Jeep towels, replacement mirrors, entry guards, ARB Camping chairs, recovery kits and Hi-Lift Jacks were popular.
"The weather at this show is usually among the hottest days of the year, so we certainly appreciate everyone who came out to this great event to spend time with us," said Craig Jaros, Quadratec Outside Events Coordinator.
Besides checking out wares at respective vendors, many Jeep owners also registered for the event's Show and Shine contest, and brought beautifully restored or modified vehicles that were judged in three different categories—stock, modified and unlimited. Hundreds of owners also had their vehicles inspected for the event's obstacle course and spent a lot of time on the rocks giving their Jeeps a workout. This year's course was again set up by Bernie Gardula, general manager of Rausch Creek Off Road Park in Tremont, Pennsylvania, and offered three different challenges to give all skill level drivers something to overcome. Additionally, those who wanted to experience the course, but didn't want to drive it, were able to 'passenger up' with an experienced guide, such as Team Quadratec's Ron Lind, Gardula, or serveral others. River Raider's Kenny Hauk even brought his built-up Power Wagon on the course and unleashed some flames out of the side pipes, to give those in the audience a thrill.
Rounding out the event was grand raffle Sunday afternoon which included $20,000 in products.
This year's event was the last at the York Fairgrounds, as PA Jeeps is moving the event up the road to the Carlisle Fairgrounds next July 18-19. The York Fair is moving from September to July next year, precipitating the move to Carlisle for the All Breeds Show.
-----Matt Konkle
Quadratec Managing Editor