Presenting Summer Showdown 2017 Car Show Coverage — Automotive Photography by Blake Ferguson
- Blake Ferguson
- Aug 5, 2017
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 29
Date Published: 08/05/2017
Date Edited: 06/03/2025
Car Culture in the countryside knows how to get down! Well, there you have it, family and friends— another noteworthy weekend for the history books of car shows and auto events through the car scene of Ontario.
As a hobbyist photographer equipped with my Sony A300 camera- where I experienced grand-scale interstate auto shows and one solely absorbent of the concrete jungle, my enthusiasm was lacking as I doubted the turnout the countryside would propose for the calibre of stance and custom car projects the small town residents turned up with!
Behn and I took a trip from Newmarket, Ontario, to Norfolk County, and it was a new experience for us. Coming from the Greater Toronto Area, I can honestly say I never thought I’d hear about Norfolk County in connection with the modified 2000 Volkswagen Jetta MK4 VR6. It felt like we were exploring uncharted territory! Furthermore, we stumbled across a familiar face in unfamiliar terrain, Nick Green and his modified 2014 Scion FR-S— another legend of the car scene based in the Niagara Falls region, where Nick has been sculpting his Scion FR-S for a similar length as compared to Behn with his MK4 Jetta.
The Summer Showdown 2017 Experience
The Summer Showdown 2017 was a remarkable event that carved its mark in the vibrant car culture of Ontario. Where we found ourselves amidst an eclectic gathering of auto enthusiasts. Armed with my trusty Sony A300, I was initially skeptical of what the countryside could offer compared to large interstate shows. However, my doubts soon subsided as we immersed ourselves in a custom car showcase that defied expectations.
The Summer Showdown 2017 car show featured an impressive array of slammed mini-trucks from classic eras, their low stances and vintage aesthetics capturing the spirit of bygone times. Side by side, there were modern, lifted trucks, their robust frames gleaming well above human height. Though I’m not well-versed in truck specifics, it was evident that these vehicles were of SEMA-grade calibre—each one a testament to meticulous craftsmanship and innovative design.
For those unfamiliar, the SEMA Auto Show is an annual automotive trade event that showcases outstanding automotive products and custom vehicles since 1967. Known for setting trends in the automotive industry, SEMA’s influence was palpable in the high-quality builds on display at the Norfolk County Fairgrounds. Furthermore, unique classic vehicles, reminiscent of Bonnie & Clyde-inspired projects, added an element of nostalgia and intrigue, captivating onlookers with their historical charm and bespoke modifications.
The highlight was undoubtedly Behn and his triumph, as he won the Best in Class and the Top 3 in Class with his meticulously modified 2000 Volkswagen Jetta MK4 VR6. With immense passion and dedication behind his custom car setup, I believe it was well deserved. Witnessing such automotive artistry and enthusiasm in an unexpected location served as a poignant reminder of the diverse car culture throughout Ontario.
Experience the Norfolk County Fairgrounds for yourself!
Follow the Norfolk County Fairgrounds on Social Media:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/norfolkagsociety
Twitter: https://x.com/norfolkfair
Video Recap of Summer Showdown 2017 by Braden Murray Productions
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