BMW CCA member Barry Natwick shares his experience at a new BMW CCA regional event.
The beginning of spring means the arrival of car shows that bring out BMW enthusiasts, like the Carlisle Import and Performance Nationals event that was held May 12-13 at the spacious Carlisle Fairgrounds in Pennsylvania. This event boasts over 2,000 unique and stunning imported classic and modern vehicles on display. They also have a large flea market area and vendors for performance products, car care products, and accessories throughout the infield area. Most of the major car clubs host car shows in the infield where members get together to display their prized possessions, meet up with old friends, make new friends, and swap their favorite car stories. For those who want a little more action, there are several exhibition events: an autocross, a drifting exhibition, an exhaust competition, and more.
The Nittany Bimmers Chapter hosts a Carlisle event each year, but in the last few attendance has declined. To turn things around this year, the chapter worked with Region VP Larry Engel to bring together the BMW CCA North Atlantic Chapters and neighboring National Capital Chapter for a regional event. Member response was very positive and even though we experienced light rain on the second day, we had over 100 BMWs on the showfield when combined with the Z Car group members and X Chapter representatives.
Larry Engel talks to Ricardo Carrero from Puerto Rico who stopped by the CCA tent. In the background Nittany Bimmers President Andy Miller speaks with another member.
Saturday had the biggest turn out, despite some light rain. Members from the Genesee Valley, Allegheny, Patroon, Delaware Valley, Pocono Mountain, New Jersey, New York, and National Capital Chapters were in attendance. Even a member from Puerto Rico stopped by our tent!
One of the objectives for the show was to exhibit the value of joining BMW CCA and to solicit membership. I’m happy to report that we were successful in signing new members at the show and have planted the seed for others to join.
On Friday we had a great mix of vintage BMWs on display.
Members and non-members alike enjoyed our display and had the opportunity to speak with owners about their cars. Carlisle Events has done a great job making this show one of the best in our region and there was never a dull moment with something always going on throughout the infield and over at the track.
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- Max Spangler from Spangler Auto gave a detailing presentation to the group.
Region Vice President Larry Engel liked what he saw and wants to make this an annual BMW CCA event. The 2024 show will be held on May 10-11, so mark your calendars now for next year’s event. Carlisle is a charming area with plenty of site sightseeing, restaurants, and hotels nearby. It’s a great way to start the spring season and see some great cars and catch up with BMW CCA friends! —Barry Natwick
