The Classics in the Country happening this weekend in Grafton on Sunday June 11.
Paul Hicks is organizing the event and said he’s been to many car shows, but wanted to try and incorporate everything into one local show with funds going to The Grace Bowen Tribute Fund at SickKids.
“Grace was a classmate of our son Braden. So in 2017, we put on our first CITC show at the old Centreton ball field- our little show raised $2522. Every prize and door prize was donated – and 100% of all proceeds are donated.”
In 2018, more people came on board and raised $5,300. Because of the support the Classics in the Country Car Show outgrew the location.
“We approached our neighbor in Grafton, Al Martin who hosted the Hitchin Post Jamboree and said since it’s for SickKids he would donate the land. This is definitely the perfect location as it has a stage and some really cool out buildings!”
With the help of the community, $6,500 was raised for SickKids.
Then COVID hit and for the next two years, there was no show.
“But last year we were back with a vengeance.”
“Despite a little bit of rain which held a lot of people out of Northumberland Country away, and even with less cars than our last show we were able to raise an astonishing $11,280.”
With the support from the community each year the prizes get bigger.
Last year the donations were the biggest part of the show.
Grace’s parents, Andrea and Greg Bowen have come each year and given a speech about the importance of funding childhood cancer research. Honestly that is the hardest time for us as organizers, knowing her story, yet hearing her parents speak, knowing their pain and how difficult it must be for them to do this each year.”
This year Grace would have graduated from high school. Her prom would have been held last weekend.
“We try and tell everyone about this cause.”
The Bowen’s are moving this year and are unable to attend, but they are sending a letter that will be read on their behalf. Hicks adds, they have a core group for up to six volunteers but also very much appreciate the help of up to 30 volunteers the day of the show.
The show is open to all makes and models and takes place Sunday, June 11, 2023 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 10914 County Road 2 in Grafton.
Admission is $20 registration fee and $5 spectator (donation). Kids are free.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
