3 minute read
Model T Racing Returns to Bruderheim
Model T Racing Returns to Bruderheim
Michelle Pinon - News Advertiser
Old Model T Racers were roaring around the half mile dirt track at the Bruderheim Agricultural Grounds on Sept. 2 much to the delight of more than 1,000 fans. Matt Hotte, who organized the event with his wife Cassie, thanked the volunteers who assisted them as well as the Bruderheim Ag Society which allowed them to host the event at its venue.
The event also featured motorcycle racing and a car show that had well over 100 participants. “It’s a good community event,” said Matt as it helps bring people to town and give a boost to the local economy.
The vintage Model T’s, more than a century old, originally raced back in the forties. Many parts had been cobbled together to make them race worthy again. Three of the race cars came out of Strong’s Garage in Bruderheim which is owned and operated by Matt and his business partner Jim Koladich.
Matt’s dad Ken, also plays a huge role in his life, the business and the event, getting behind the wheel of the #24 car that Bob Villetard raced in the mid-forties. In one of Matt’s and Jim’s YouTube videos, Matt explains that Bob’s son Randy asked to come by the shop. “He had an envelope of pictures I’ve never seen before and brought a wrist watch, and now it’s one of my most treasured things. His dad won the wristwatch at a race in Calgary on Sept. 2, 1946 that was hosted by the Calgary Lion’s Club.
The #14 driver Peter Anderson said it’s an honour to drive the car that was once driven by Gordon Rasmussen who raced from 1941 to 1951. Matt’s car used to be piloted by George Lemay, who was inducted into the Canadian Motorsports Hall of Farm. Matt said he got the car from a friend.
Matt said that, “Even though the Model T’s are priceless artifacts, in my mind they’re still cars and it’s fun to get out and use them. It’s nice to get together with a group of guys who just want to have fun.”
“George Lemay was instrumental in the next group of racing with the Alberta Auto Racing Association. That’s when drivers either went into stock car or sprint car racing.” On display was the #4 car that was one of 12 original auto racing cars in Alberta. It was sponsored by Blackie Motors and last raced in the mid’50’s.
While these Model T’s are from a bygone era, revisiting the past, while living in the present was a special thrill for classic car fans who demonstrated their heartfelt appreciation to the drivers for keeping the spirit and the sport alive.
