Hudson Valley Cruise

  I am reluctant to be critical of any show, knowing the efforts involved, and the dedication of the people whom planned and worked deligently to put it on.  So , to those whom unselfishly did their part, I thank you.  There were many positives to this show, such as the congeniality of everyone, the show location (which was almost breathtaking) , the available amenties, such as good food, and a beverage  concession, as well as restrooms, etc...........  The classification, and judging and trophy awards, on the other hand, left much to be desired!   Please don't assume that I am disgruntled, because I ,or others I know, did not win one, rather that there were cars there which were truly more deserving, over others.   This was a display of "blatent favoritism" , in the highest degree !    To begin with, there were only 3 (!) classes of juding; Stock, Custom, and Motorcycles.   There were 4 judges. (2 of which were with the same car)  Of the 25 class trophies, there were another 3 that were special awards .   3 trophies were won by the judges, entrees!! Another trophy was awarded to a local club member, whom had a "bone-stock" 2008 pick-up truck, which had only seen any type of cleaning during the latest rain, and had almost un-inspectable tires (brown from use), ahh, but it did have "little trees" and a handy-cap plaquard, hanging----so ,it must have fit in the "custom" class(!) while, parked next to me was a gorgeous hand built "Spyker--Syder" worth maybe $150,000 which received no recognition at all !    Of the remaining trophies/awards, many were also given to local club members.  In fairness, there were other entries that well deserved the recognition, and received it.  But, I recant as others have done with this and other shows, is a $5 trophy worth loosing future participation?   I know that I will not attend this show in the future.    To further my own personal dismay, my car was hit by another entrant, as he was leaving.  No real damage was done, but the driver had intended to just continue on his way, without regard to checking either car for damage, until I stopped him!   (The proverbial "last straw", for my decision NOT to return)     It's pretty bad when the highlight of this experience was cruising home with Cathy, Karl Judy & Gene, which I DID enjoy.  Thanks guys for making the afternoon pleasant in conversation, as well.  To my knowledge, only 1 of the 5 skulls club members present ,was awarded a trophy.  (Congrats again, JoAnne--&--Sorry "Gene,Gene the dancing machine") OK, I speak only for myself, and I will stop griping now, but I welcome response proving me wrong, from anyone.                 DOK                                                                       

DOK? You nailed it.

I agree, clubs putting on shows should be exempt from prizes, and definately Judges!

Maybe somebody should kindly pass this link on to them: http://www.carshowcentral.com/car-enthusiast-resources/car-show-judging-guide.html

It probably wouldn't help if there was blatant favoritism going on. This is good to know for the future; however. Thanks for telling us about your experience.