It is one of those events that you, as an editor, have a soft spot for. The Oldtimer Show in Sint NIcolaasga is more than a gathering of a classic collection of trucks, bicycles, mopeds, motorcycles, tractors and cars. For years, the event has been characterized by its human scale and personal contact. This year too, the organization gave an excellent example of this.
It is Saturday, July 6. Bauke Bos and his companions doubt whether the annual classic party should continue. The weather forecast is grim, and the weather of the previous day - Bauke thought - will motivate few classic car owners to go to Saint Nyk to travel away. The intention to cancel the case is taking hold, and the email distribution list of registered participants is already ready. And to tell them that the event is cancelled. Bauke does not send the message, fortunately optimism wins. “We sette troch,” thinks Bauke, and it works out well.
That choice is right. You have no influence on the weather, and that also applies to your love for classic cars. This is not only the case with the organizers, but also with many classic car owners. A very respectable number decide to travel to the event in the south of the province. Ultimately, a colorful collection is visible to visitors.
And that collection trickled in during the Oldtimer Show, which was opened by drag queen Curvalicious Diamond. It was not without reason that the organization invited the drag queen. The alter ego of Wietze Hoekstra from De Triemen was invited to the opening of the event on Saturday, July 6, 2024 for a reason. “We want to emphasize that everyone is equal when organizing the classic car show. That is very important to us at a time when everyone says it, but does not always follow through,” says Bauke. He also refers to the field of participants. “All classics in all sizes, types and states are welcome. Everyone experiences the hobby in his or her own way, and you should always respect that.”
Bauke Bos looks back on a wonderful event. “Yes, it was another successful day. We were a bit unlucky in terms of weather conditions, the traditional annual fair was also canceled due to the strong wind. Fortunately, we were able to let the case continue and everything turned out fine. And - as usual - we also saw many old acquaintances during the event. We are happy that we allowed it to continue, although we would of course like to welcome the sun again next year,” says Bauke Bos.
The fact that many classic car owners still chose to travel to Sint Nicolaasga is a sign of the loyalty of the participants. Bauke: “Don't forget that we have of course organized the necessary events, and in our own way. And the fact that we can look back on a successful day despite the rather erratic weather is not only our fault. We provide the facilities, but the participants of the Oldtimer Show make it through the day. And fortunately there was plenty to see and look at again this year.” That's how it is. Persistence wins, and always wins. The stormy but successful day was successful, and the organizers fully deserved it for several reasons.
Thanks to Bauke Bos
Photo credits: © Bauke Bos-Oldtimershow Sint Nicolaasga
