Takin' it easy at the Silver Dollar Car Classic

Everything from Jags to jalopies congregated under the cottonwoods at Mills Park Saturday for the seventh annual Silver Dollar Car Classic.

About 225 cars competed in the event this year, which was easy, and laid back.

Moms, dads, kids and the older set mingled with car aficionados.

A stiff breeze from the west lifted the heat away and as people gathered for lunch the smell of lighter fluid wafted in the air.

Jim Richardson, of Gardnerville, was standing not too far from his pride and joy, a 1965 Shelby which won best factory muscle car at the Karson Kruzers show last month. The Shelby is a modified Ford Mustang. He said the best thing about an event like this is the people.

"They're a bunch of car nuts sitting around telling lies," he said with a smile.

Erwin and Carol Gibbs, of Carson City, brought their 1949 Jeepster convertible and Fallon residents Mike and Kristy Phalen proudly displayed their 1965 T-bird.

Al and Irene King of Grass Valley said they preferred easy, uncrowded events like these, and especially enjoyed the park.

The two were relaxing near their cream-colored Ford sedan. Built in 1948, it is the second car they have restored in 10 years. They've recently attended shows in Pismo Beach and Bakersfield, Calif., and said these events are a great excuse to travel to places they've never been, taking in the history and feel of communities they visit.

Car buffs competed in 37 categories including class, stock, and modified categories from 1900 to 1980, Thunderbirds, Mustangs, street rods, muscle cars, drag, Corvettes and foreign cars.

Twelve specialty calendar awards will be named including the governor's and mayor's choice, best of show, the best paint job and gentleman's choice.

Today, classic sponsors are hosting the country's only $1 million Poker Run. The contest is open to both the public and participants. Whoever has the best poker hand will have a chance at the grand prize -- a shot at a hole in one that could net them $1 million at the Empire Ranch Golf Course.

The event closes today with the awards ceremony and Silver Dollar Steak BBQ from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

What: Silver Dollar Car Classic awards

When: p.m. today

Where: Pony Express Pavilion, Mills Park