I don't know what it was....the thrash on Elrod's coupe that made getting to the show such a huge goal and accomplishment, the fact that I missed it last year (only one I missed since the first), or the fun I had in Austin other than at the car show, but this was the best Roundup experience I've ever had. The cars, the old friends and new, the atmosphere of ATX....can't beat it. Elrod came down with the coupe Friday, I didn't get there until Saturday morning. From then on, it was mecca. Picture time... Triumph! Elrod being a proud papa, showing off all the hard work we got done over the last 3 months. A long time ago...when the HAMB was young, and so was I...Gary Howard cars were on the top of my list. I had seen most of them at the KKOA show in Dennison, TX and had been in love for a long time. I'd seen the Exotica on numerous occasions since, but it had been far too long since I laid eyes on Jimmy's Riviera. Perfection.
I had seen that the Barris Merc was going to be there a few weeks prior. From that point on, I didn't care if it was the only car at the show....Sam's Merc was the only reason to be there. Jason was honored with a spot in the featured car area, which meant we were close to the one and only. Naturally, it was the first car I made a bee-line for. I'm not going to apologize for the excessive pictures...there really aren't enough. Since I was 10 or 11, I have been in love with this car...as far as I am concerned, there is no Merc built since that is any better. Sam got it right the first time. On one of many ventures to take a look, I met John Mumford. He is the coolest guy...we talked about how we both share more of a passion for hot rods than customs, but that this car was so undeniably perfect. At the end of the day we were sitting by the coupe and I noticed that John was about to take off with the car. I had built up my supply of liquid confidence over the course of the day, so I took a chance. I walked up to him, reintroduced myself, and politely but directly asked if I could sit in the car. He say go right ahead! My mind...................blown. John, if you are out there...thanks again, you made my day sir.
The ladies were fawning over Mr. Ford's coupe all day long... but we all thought Elrod did it better justice Never noticed this coupe inside the show, but saw it from a distance after we were out in the parking lot. Really wish I had gotten to take a closer look! Thanks to the Kontinentals, Joyo and the Austin Speed Shop, and everyone else who makes this weekend possible. I can't wait until #12.
I don't know how you do what you do with the camera, but I always enjoy your pictures man, from the look on your face, you sure did like that merc didn't you , great seeing you there Eric.
Great pics. The Barris Merc was unbelievable and Mr. Mumford was a super nice guy. This show gets better every year.
I would have to agree on the lucky bastard bit ! Congrats on getting to sit in Sam's car, and thanks for the great pics!!
It was definitely a great show! Thanks for sharing your pictures.. I see a few I missed. The show was way bigger than I expected.
Needs slicks Michael! I think if I built a Merc, it would just end up being a clone of Sam's car! What I need to do is marry way up, then convince John to sell.
The Jalopy Journal
