2008 Show-N-Shine

Volvo of Victoria - Show-N-Shine 2008 Volvo of Victoria - Show-N-Shine 2008

Hosted by Volvo of Victoria


June 1, 2008

Volvo of Victoria - Show-N-Shine 2008
Volvo of Victoria - Show-N-Shine 2008

I must admit it is hard to believe we have just completed our seventh Show-N-Shine. Seems only yesterday we had moved to Victoria and the subject of an island meet of some kind came up over coffee at Landsman’s. And it seems only yesterday I was here in Inuvik writing about last year’s show. You know, it’s hard to convince people down south that at 28 C (82F) Inuvik has been the hot spot in Canada for the last few days. But I digress.

Volvo of Victoria - Show-N-Shine 2008
Volvo of Victoria - Show-N-Shine 2008. Olof Malmberg's sparkling red 544.

We’ve had several formats and locations over the years and each one has been successful. Show-N-Shine VII was again hosted by Volvo of Victoria in their shiny new facility. We really consider it quite an honour to be given the run of the entire show room and the outer display area on two of Victoria’s main streets. There were a number of cars from up island but I think the long distance award should go to Olof Malmberg who caught the early ferry from the mainland in his sparkling red 544. It wasn’t long after he was installed in the showroom that he disappear for a tour of Victoria on the bike he had in the trunk. Although attendance was down a bit, only 21 cars this year compared to 28 to 32 in the past, the quality and variety was certainly there. The 21 cars represented 12 different types. The 544s, 122s and 850s were certainly most popular, both sedans and wagons. One of a kinds included the 164, V70, S60, 240, S90 and the club’s 71 145 Express. This blue truck with the club logo on the side panel with magnetic signs is unique in Canada. As far as we know only two were brought in. And the other one is alive and well in London, Ontario. So I guess we can boast that the Canadian 145 Express Club can boast 100 percent membership – both cars! And new to this year’s meet, and to a lot of Volvophiles present was a silver 480Turbo. I’m going have to talk to my co-organizer at Volvo of Victoria, Angela Moran, and see if I can get some more background on this one.

Volvo of Victoria - Show-N-Shine 2008
Volvo of Victoria - Show-N-Shine 2008. This year’s People’s Choice award went to Paul Hasler for his sparkling red 123GT.

After a bite of lunch from the BBQ the attendees were gathered for the drawing for door prizes. Just about everyone seemed to get something. Thanks to Volvo of Victoria and Terry Little at Chapman Motors for their contributions at this event and their support throughout the year. This year’s People’s Choice award went to Paul Hasler for his sparkling red 123GT. I’m glad I wasn’t judging these cars as a concourse event; it would have been a hard choice. It wasn’t much longer until participants were easing out the doors of the showroom and off to take advantage of the fine Sunday weather for a drive around the city or up island and back home. Thanks to all who attended and supported the club. It’s always fun to organize a meet and very rewarding to see the continued support and quality of cars on show days.