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April 20, 2008 - 11:15PM
Car, bicycle enthusiasts gather at lowrider show
Comments | RecommendRachel M. Branch, For the Tribune
Bobby Quihuis said his lowrider car is more than a vehicle, it is part of his culture. Quihuis bought his 1973 Chevrolet El Camino from a junk yard for about $200.
SLIDESHOW: See photos from the event
After five years and thousands of dollars Quihuis began displaying his car in shows. He said that the $25,000 he put into his car may seem like too much to some people, but he believes it was worth it.
"You do it for the art," he said.
Quihuis proudly displayed his El Camino at the Dia de Guadalupe and Lowrider Car Show presented by Intimidations Car Club on Sunday. The show took place at the Guadalupe Mercado on the southeast corner of Guadalupe Road and Avenida del Yaqui. An estimated 172 cars came out for the event. Quihuis, president of the Society Car Club, displayed his lowrider alongside others from his club.
"It's always been a passion of mine," Quihuis said. He said that lowriders have been a part of his life for so long "it's almost heritage."
Quihuis said he was proud to share this heritage with boys his son's age.
"It's a way to keep them off the streets." he said, standing in front of a laser blue lowrider bicycle belonging to his son. Quihuis said the lowrider bicycle has helped to create good study habits for his son. As a reward for good grades, he allows his son to add new accessories to his bike, Quihuis said, adding that if he gets bad grades he's not allowed to enter his bike into competitions.
Visitors strolled along the line of decked-out cars at the event, enjoying the food and entertainment. Outside of the Mercado, vendors sold burritos, funnel cakes, shaved ice, and other treats. Groups performed Mexican folk dancing inside the Mercado.
"This is a day of family fun," said William Robles, a security worker at the event.
Patrick Torres and his father Pat Torres have made the lowrider car show a family event.
The two drive up from Tucson every year to judge the car show.
"We've been involved in this sport for over 20 years," Patrick Torres said. He said that he has been into lowriders since he was very young.
"I originally had a lowrider bike, and it just stuck with me," he said.
There were about 15 car clubs at the event.
As Patrick and Pat Torres walked around judging each vehicle and bicycle display, the pair checked for body modifications, paint, stereo, graphics and engine work.
The judging took place from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. and trophies were handed out for various cars by the end of the day.
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