Modified Father’s Day Event a Trip Down Memory Lane

Modified Father’s Day Event a Trip Down Memory Lane

Rosanne Fortier - News Correspondent

A Sunday drive was a trip down memory lane for attendees of the Modified Father’s Day Event on June 20 at the Vegreville Ag Grounds.

Vegreville Agricultural Society (VAS) partnered with Vegreville Iron Runners Auto Club (VIRAC) to host this Drive-In & Drive-By Parade of vintage vehicles. VAS Director Derek Fox Co-Chaired the event with VIRAC President Bill Smolak.

Fox said they decided to modify this event because they couldn’t have people moving around on the grounds due to the COVID-19 restrictions.

“We wanted people to have something to do and enjoy so we planned this modified event. VIRAC had a parade through town at the hospital and seniors residences. “It was called the Del Morrison’s Memorial Ride which was to remember Del who was a key member of VIRAC and the Father’s Day Event Committee. He passed away this past winter,” stated Fox.

The parade went through town with about 40 vintage vehicles led by the Vegreville Fire Department’s antique fire truck who proceeded to the Vegreville Agricultural Grounds with another eight vehicles who were already there for the Drive-In & Drive-By Parade.

Antique tractors and modern day farm equipment were also on display. Approximately 350 vehicles drove in to enjoy the parade.

“Also, we had some gate prizes which were donated by Bumper to Bumper. Overall, I felt that the event went great. The weather was perfect, we had great participation from vintage car owners and local dealers, and the fans came out in large numbers,” added Fox.

Roland Robert from Vegreville, owner of an American Motors AMX from 1968, was one of the participants at the event. “I never restored vehicles. This car was an original. I like vintage vehicles because they remind me of the past. Otherwise, I enjoy showcasing this car and have shown it at this show a couple of times. It is fun to participate as I get to meet people and share my interest in vintage vehicles with them.”