2nd Annual Automania In Ocala • 2006

The Automania Classic, Rod, Custom & Bike Show came to the Ocala Regional Sportsplex on Sunday, January 29th, 2006. Though this was the 2nd Annual show it was the first time we have attended it, having not been able to make it up for the fun last year. Our first impression was that the Ocala Regional Sportsplex was an outstanding facility to host such a show, with plenty of room for a massive turnout. There was so much room available, in fact, that while the show did draw a good number of cars the vast expanses available may have made it mentally seem like less. That’s not a bad thing though, because there is certainly plenty of room for expansion.

The host for Automania was the ‘55-72 Chevy Classics of North Central Florida, and they did a great job making things go smoothly. There were 35 classes, accommodating all types of cars and trucks spanning a variety of years, makes, models and styles. At the end of the day winners in each class received their respective trophy thanks to the sponsorship of National Parts Depot. In addition, there were also Top 50 awards for cars and trucks, plus several specialty awards. Those who arrived on two wheels had their own motorcycle classes as well, with trophies for the winners plus more specialty awards.

Giveaways included two AM/FM CD car stereo systems and two car alarm systems courtesy of Custom Innovations of Ocala, a 3-wheel motorized golf scooter from Roy’s Toys, and a Pro-Cycle XLT motorcycle lift from Affordable Automotive Equipment of Orlando. There were also vendors on hand, a swap meet and car corral for those looking to pick up a few new pieces. Entertainment came thanks to performances by the Dukes Of Harmony and Dunning Shaw, with Big Oldies 92.9 FM providing a live broadcast.

We had a good time during our first visit to the Automania Classic, Rod, Custom & Bike Show at the Ocala Regional Sportsplex, and if this sounds like fun to you as well keep an eye out for the announcement of the 2007 dates in our Coming Attractions section as the event draws closer. CN