Pacific International Street Rod Association - History
Remember all those neat cars and clubs of the 50’s? It seemed every town had its group of greasers with their groovy chopped and channeled machines. BC was no exception. The prominent clubs were the BC Custom Car Association and the BC Hot Rod Association. Then came the jet age of the 60’s. Everything became far out and cool and soon the hotrods were replaced by muscle machines. Most clubs became part of history but not without leaving some very real impressions on some of the younger generations.
One such inspired individual was Gary Lang. In the late 60’s his dream finally came true, he completed an expertly engineered “FAD T.” Gary, now on the street, found he had a rare if not unique mode of transportation. Somewhere there had to be others with the same interest and desire. One of the clubs still in existence was the Cam Jammers of Vernon, BC, but that was quite a haul for a Sunday afternoon cruise. So, Gary ran an ad in a Vancouver paper asking those interested in pre-49 autos to meet with him. He was no doubt overwhelmed when approximately 25 devoted individuals showed up. Such rodders as Lee, Elchuk, Diachuk, Grant, Larson, Gazso, Welsh, Stefanko, Traquair and Grocott were there. From this meeting came the first unofficial street outing to happen on the coast within 10 years. Out of garages and barns came the old time rods and a surprising contingent of newly built machines. About 50 people motored to Swan’s Point for a Sunday picnic. The year was 1970. That Fall under Gary’s direction a weekend run at Cultus Lake was held with around a dozen in attendance. The following year, no organized street rod events were scheduled due to lack of time and direction.
Gary, in the meantime met two industrious fellows by the names of Bob Wharton and Gary Pickard, who later proved to possess what the sport was lacking – organization! At the next major car show in Vancouver they set up a booth and compiled a list of individuals interested in street rods. The list totaled 200, consisting of people from BC and Washington State. The time had come to give the group official status. The name chosen was “PACIFIC INTERNATIONAL STREET ROD ASSOCIATION” – more commonly known as PISRA.
Bob and the two Gary’s then began to unite the rodders with an occasional newsletter. Then in the spring of ’72 the first Birch Bay, Washington run was held. In July of the same year Gary encouraged a group of rodders to attend the “Old Timers” run in Tacoma, Washington. You can imagine the excitement when Gary’s T took “Best Engineered.” He was also presented with a special “Inspirational Award” in recognition of his encouragement and promotion of Canadian participation at the run. “72 also brought the trio’s first official weekend run later to be known as “FAMILY AFFAIR.” Based at the Davey Crockett Motel in Abbotsford the run drew 45 cars, many from the U.S. 1973 saw a similar slate of events with the same group still carrying most of the workload. It wasn’t until the fall of that year that the club would get its first Executive. Jim Flett, a knowledgeable CSRA rodder who had recently moved from Ontario became PISRA’s first Chairman; Gary Picard, Co-Chairman, Barb Gazso, Treasurer & Membership; Doreen White, Recording Secretary; Betty Blackburn, Corresponding Secretary, Dave Gazso, Tour Director and Bob Wharton, Editorial Director.
PISRA presented its Birch Bay and Family Affair Runs in ’74 and added a third event, a swap meet under the direction of Jim & Sue Pearson, which would also become an annual event. A few years later PISRA combined with A&T and Vintage Car Club of Canada (Vancouver Chapter) in order to put on one large swap meet rather than the three smaller ones. The Coastal Swap Meet was formed and is the largest in Western Canada. The May event has been held in Coquitlam, Cloverdale and currently in Abbotsford at the Tradex Convention Center. Up until 1975, the annual weekend run had always been motel based but when the attendance figure for ’74 reached 150 the club had to change locations. The first campout became known as the “Mud Run.” A torrent of rain sent many home but the campground still proved too small for those who stayed as the attendance soared to 190. The club was fortunate in ’76, ’77 and ’78 to be able to obtain the ample facilities of Mission Raceway, Mission, BC. An exciting street rod drag meet was added to the program.
In May ’78, the club joined with the Vintage Car Club of Canada to put on the first Valley Rally. In October, representatives of PISRA gave the club’s views on import laws dealing with antique autos to the Canadian Customs Tariff Enquiry Board. Also that year PISRA was invited to send a panel of members and one of their cars to be part of a Vancouver based TV station’s program called “Sports Page.” Excellent coverage was given by the network and the club was able to publicly present its objectives and concerns regarding the sport of Street Rodding.
PISRA’s main objective is to keep united individuals with a common interest and to keep vehicle safety a priority. Throughout the years, the club has kept an active interest in Motor Vehicle Legislation and recently has given full support to the newly formed Specialty Vehicle Association of British Columbia.
Owning a pre-’49 auto is the only pre-requisite to becoming a member of PISRA. At present there are about 80 members, most residing in the lower mainland from Chilliwack to Vancouver, with a few in the Interior. Meetings are held on a monthly basis. A fee of $40.00 per year covers the whole family. PISRA was one of the first clubs to give equal voice to female members, several of whom have held executive and honorary positions.
PISRA sponsored at least two dances per year; participated in the Bradner, BC Victoria Day Parade by chauffeuring the May Queen and party; supported most local cars shows; has donated to the Crippled Children’s Fund; Maple Ridge Agriculture Committee and Bradner Community Club.
In November ‘85 Expo ‘86 invited our club to construct and displaya vehicle, a “50’s style hot rod.” This car would be on display throughout the length of the fair. It didn’t require an engine or any interior as the car had to be public proof as possible. This would be a hands-on display. The member taking on the responsibility of the Expo project was Doug Rutherford. The club purchased the car with Doug doing all the body and paint work. The car chosen for the project was a 1937 Chev 2-door Sedan. With all the needed rust repairs, body work and paint Doug did manage to complete the car on time. After all that work the car was not used at Expo ‘86. The club was reimbursed for expenses and Doug got to keep the car for his time and efforts.
In 2001 PISRA celebrated their 30th Anniversary. To commemorate this very special occasion the membership built a 1928 Ford 2-door Sedan based on the club logo. This street rod was raffled off and at the annual club banquet a very happy Lynn Lutz of Chilliwack drove home in her new/old car. All the funds generated were donated to one of PISRA’s favorite charities, the South Fraser Child Development Centre.
FAMILY AFFAIR - Barb Gazso
1972 saw the First Official Rod Run of the newly formed Pacific International Street Rod Association, based at the Davey Crockett Motel in Abbotsford. The run drew 45 cars; many from the U.S. Earlier in the year club members had traveled to Tacoma to attend the Old Timer’s run. They (Huh!) were surprised that we (Eh?) drove something other than dogsleds. Curiosity got the better of them and they attended our first rod run ever to see what else we had hidden in the bush and snow. The next two runs, 1973 and 1974, were also held at the Davy Crockett and because of the number of babies, pregnant PISRA women and the fact that Barb Gazso and Sue Pearson managed to deliver Lee and Danielle practically in the midst of things, the run became affectionately known as the “Family Affair.”
Those were great motel-based runs. A few camped in the truck stop next to the freeway and a lot just drove out for the day. We would start off Saturday with a police escorted parade through downtown Abbotsford and Clearbrook, making our way out to Bradner where the local community club graciously loaned us, free of charge, their beautiful park. Hot dog and corn roasts, volleyball and a tug-of-war anchored by Dave Stefanko the mighty. During the kids games, a T roadster appeared and out of the back jumped a gorilla, many were permanently altered that day. Many moms wished they had brought an extra pair of drawers for their youngsters. Not to forget the straw scramble when the sweaty little tykes dove in to get a prize and then returned to dad’s rod with straw particles sticking everywhere. When the evening drew nigh we would motor back to the motel for a banquet dinner and boogie the night away. I recall in 1973, bringing a large taped reel of Creedance Clearwater Revival to that dance and we played it all night long. And who can forget those that arrived dressed in 50’s style?
Up until 1975, the annual weekend run had always been motel-based but when the attendance figure for '74 reached 150, the club had to change the location. The first campout at the Abbotsford Campground on the side of Sumas Mountain became known as the "mud run." A torrent of rain sent many home but for those that stayed, we chased greased pigs, got lost on Sumas Prairie and wore hillbilly costumes to the dance held on the dirt driveway. The music of the hour was "Doobie Brothers" and the attendance was 190.
The club was fortunate in 1976, 77 & 78 to be able to obtain the ample facilities of the Mission Raceway. An exciting racing event was added to the program with our own Perry Enns showing many how to become “King of the Hill.” This was the start of the famous scavenger hunt for the kids and the appearance of the A&W Root Bear. During one of these years at Mission, the local police came to investigate as it had been reported to them that a native was selling fish at the run. (Diazuk was barbequing fish again!) The dance was held at the end of the track and I can’t report on the music, only on the fact that you had to walk down to the end in the dark and that pesky gorilla kept jumping out and grabbing you. The guys didn’t have this problem?? Sadly the raceway closed and we were on the move again.
1975 saw us at Haney Fairgrounds. This is a run I would prefer to forget as the grounds were not wonderful and the weather was equally as bad. The show and shine was, however, rather nostalgic as it was held on the old roundy-round track where we had watched the stock car races as teenagers. This saw the first Best Rad Bug contest, Best Rod Hat and Best Concealed Beer contest. Do you know what it’s like to try and explain to Woo Fat that you are looking for a rad bug on his T? Some clown from Vancouver Island arrived wearing his grandmother’s sun bonnet and another captured the prize for Best Concealed Beer by putting his can in the guts of a flashlight – whatever!
1980-1995: Chilliwack Fairgrounds. 16 years, can you believe it? They all tend to blend together, but here are some of my memories:
Gorgeous campsite under the maple trees where the grandstand sits, Showers!, “Lunatics” cooking a joint of beef over a fire, First Nations providing the yummy BBQ salmon on hospitality night, Teen dances and lip sync contests, Pony rides, magicians and puppet shows, Elvis impersonator Randy Friske – wasn’t he great? When Boston Pizza gave us boxes for the hospitality bag and then you could take the box and they would give you a free pizza. Hit with the kids! A&W night cruise, Wanderers band that entertained the kids on Friday night and made us adults dance to the wee hours of the morn, Days and nights so hot that we had to put up garden sprinklers for the participants to run in and the band playing inside with everyone outside in the cool! The Langley Loafers putting on the “Tour de Valley” and “Rodder Olympics.” All the other poker runs, the Chilliwack guys and gals out-do themselves, Trotting horses on the track at sunrise, Fire alarms and 10-4 radios all night long!! Oh! And not to forget “Captain Hotrod” whom I’m told is some Prince George guy and then those crazy Americans doing the “jungle jive.” The Sunday morning awards with Doug Curran; does an outstanding job, doesn’t he? The look on those little ones faces as they carried off a bike, a very large pink bunny or a wallet of case. Nor more dogs!! This, my friends, is 25 years of Family Affair, hope you had fun ☺
In 2000, due to new construction, Family Affair moved from Chilliwack Fairgrounds. The new site chosen was the Atchelitz Threshermen’s Association grounds in Chilliwack. The event was held here for two years ending Family Affair on our 30th Anniversary in 2001.
A number of smaller events were held over the next ten years, from garage tours, show & shines to poker runs and smaller picnics. In the back of our minds , we knew another Family Affair Reunion was due so plans were set in motion for our 40th in 2011.
Our 40th Anniversary Show held at the old Langley Speedway in Langley BC. This show was a huge success, just over 250 cars showed up to remember what an old Family Affair event used to be. We started with a Poker Run that ended up at the Langley Airport and pictures with an antique plane as a back drop before returning to the Raceway. Large tents were installed to display a vast collection of PISRA memorabilia and pictures. One display had a sample of almost every t- shirt ever sold at a PISRA Family Affair event. Another tent had a half dozen large photo albums spread onto a collection of tables and Frank Parker videos running in the background against a screen. The Lions Club supplied a lunch for all attending as many long lost contacts and friends exchanged hellos and what are you up these days…. In Family Affair fashion, we handed out over 100 prizes to those who attended. The biggest prize was the cast Chrome Grill badge participants received when they signed it. It was truly the hit “Dash Plaque” of the run season in 2011.
Canadian Street Rodding Hall of Fame Names the 2008 Inductees - The First Club or Association to be Inducted
There is no denying that hot rods and custom cars have been around since the earliest days of the automobile. But it was the rebirth and maturing of car clubs and associations in the late 60’s and early 70’s that fueled the street rod movement.
Often the emergence of these groups was due to the ideas and work of an individual or a small group of people with similar interests. Such is the case with 2008 Hall of Fame inductees, the Pacific International Street Rod Association (also known by the acronym PISRA), based on the lower mainland of British Columbia.
Their story goes back to the late 60’s when aspiring street rodder Gary Lang built a T-Bucket. He certainly enjoyed the car but it was a little lonely. He believed that there were other people dealing with the same issue so in a moment of inspiration, he placed an ad in a Vancouver newspaper asking those interested in pre-’49 street rods to meet. He was overwhelmed when 25 individuals showed up for that first gathering. Incidentally, many of these street rodders are still active in the hobby and continue to be members of PISRA.
As a result of that meeting, about 50 people motored to Swan’s Point for a Sunday street rod picnic. The year was 1970 and it marked the official rebirth of street rodding on the west coast.
Later that fall, under Gary’s direction, a weekend rod run was held at Cultus Lake with a dozen cars in attendance.
The following year Gary met two other industrious rodders, Bob Wharton and Gary Picard. At the next car show in Vancouver, they set up a booth and worked to compile a list of 200 people interested in street rods. As a result the name chose for the fledgling organization was the Pacific International Street Rod Association. This was in part to acknowledge the unique situation of members from both Canada and the United States.
Bob and the two Gary’s united the vast membership via a newsletter that continues today.
In 1972 the first Birch Bay, Washington run was held and later Gary Lang lead a group of Canadians to the “Old Timers” run in Tacoma. That year also marked the first official weekend rod run, later to become known as the “Family Affair,” based in Abbotsford and drawing some 45 cars from both sides of the border. “Family Affair” was destined to become one of the most publicized and well known street rod events in Canada.
In the fall of 1973 the club elected its first executive; under the guidance of this group PISRA grew and prospered. In ‘74 they again presented the Birch Bay and Family Affair rod runs and added a swap meet that would become an annual event.
In 2001 PISRA celebrated its 30th Anniversary. To commemorate this very special occasion with the membership building a 1928 Ford that was subsequently raffled off to Lynn Lutz of Chilliwack.
Unfortunately, 2001 was the last “Family Affair” rod run. A shrinking and aging membership base combined with sky-rocketing costs had taken the fun out of hosting a major weekend event.
Through the hard work and dedication of the club came the founding of the Specialty Vehicle Association of BC (SVABC.)
Over the years PISRA has become a leading organization with few peers. They continue to be active in the SVABC and the National Association of Antique Automobile Clubs of Canada as well as hosting the Coastal Swap Meet; the largest in western Canada.
Another measure of PISRA’s success is the number of clubs that they have helped establish. These include: the Vancouver Island Street Rod Association in Victoria, BC, N. Cascade Street Rod in Mt. Vernon, Washington, the Okanagan Rodtiques in Summerland, BC and the Fraser Valley Rods in Langley, BC.
Quite a legacy from a group that was founded in 1971 with two main goals: Uniting street rod enthusiasts and promoting safety in the maintenance and operation of street rods 50 years later PISRA is still a going concern and continues to reflect street rodding in Canada in a most positive way.
The Canadian Street Rodding Hall of Fame started in 1994 to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the Canadian Street Rod Association.
The Hall of Fame recognizes individuals, groups and corporations who have made significant contributions to the growth and improvements of street rodding in Canada. The alumni represent all facets of the hobby across Canada.
PISRA is the 40th inductee into the Canadian Street Rodding Hall of Fame. Rob Petty, the current Chairman and Ron Wenger, one of the original members of Pacific International Street Rod Association was presented the award, for the first club or association to be inducted, by Jim Cowan, Canadian Street Rodding Hall of Fame Chairman.
Present Day
The last few years have been a lot of fun. The club is attending numerous runs all over the province and the northern USA. Going on a run means finding somewhere good for breakfast and that has become the thing to do. Each time we plan an event, someone wants to know where we’re going to eat. This has become a major building block for our club. Each monthly meeting is started first by going to dinner as a big group, sometimes 36 people show up before a meeting. The walls come down as members get to know other members over dinner. Then it’s onto the business at hand. Meeting are held the second Thursday of the month at the Milner church in Langley.
Our club has become very flexible on eligibility requirements as the year restrictions have been lifted and all you require now is an interest in old cars and hotrods. We host a car show once a year, have club bar-b-ques, Christmas parties, and attend car shows & rod runs as a group and so on.
If this kind of thing sounds like fun, then let one of the members know and we’ll be more than happy to show you how you can be a member too…
Pacific International Street Rod Association - History
Remember all those neat cars and clubs of the 50’s? It seemed every town had its group of greasers with their groovy chopped and channeled machines. BC was no exception. The prominent clubs were the BC Custom Car Association and the BC Hot Rod Association. Then came the jet age of the 60’s. Everything became far out and cool and soon the hotrods were replaced by muscle machines. Most clubs became part of history but not without leaving some very real impressions on some of the younger generations.
One such inspired individual was Gary Lang. In the late 60’s his dream finally came true, he completed an expertly engineered “FAD T.” Gary, now on the street, found he had a rare if not unique mode of transportation. Somewhere there had to be others with the same interest and desire. One of the clubs still in existence was the Cam Jammers of Vernon, BC, but that was quite a haul for a Sunday afternoon cruise. So, Gary ran an ad in a Vancouver paper asking those interested in pre-49 autos to meet with him. He was no doubt overwhelmed when approximately 25 devoted individuals showed up. Such rodders as Lee, Elchuk, Diachuk, Grant, Larson, Gazso, Welsh, Stefanko, Traquair and Grocott were there. From this meeting came the first unofficial street outing to happen on the coast within 10 years. Out of garages and barns came the old time rods and a surprising contingent of newly built machines. About 50 people motored to Swan’s Point for a Sunday picnic. The year was 1970. That Fall under Gary’s direction a weekend run at Cultus Lake was held with around a dozen in attendance. The following year, no organized street rod events were scheduled due to lack of time and direction.
PISRA presented its Birch Bay and Family Affair Runs in ’74 and added a third event, a swap meet under the direction of Jim & Sue Pearson, which would also become an annual event. A few years later PISRA combined with A&T and Vintage Car Club of Canada (Vancouver Chapter) in order to put on one large swap meet rather than the three smaller ones. The Coastal Swap Meet was formed and is the largest in Western Canada. The May event has been held in Coquitlam, Cloverdale and currently in Abbotsford at the Tradex Convention Center. Up until 1975, the annual weekend run had always been motel based but when the attendance figure for ’74 reached 150 the club had to change locations. The first campout became known as the “Mud Run.” A torrent of rain sent many home but the campground still proved too small for those who stayed as the attendance soared to 190. The club was fortunate in ’76, ’77 and ’78 to be able to obtain the ample facilities of Mission Raceway, Mission, BC. An exciting street rod drag meet was added to the program.
In May ’78, the club joined with the Vintage Car Club of Canada to put on the first Valley Rally. In October, representatives of PISRA gave the club’s views on import laws dealing with antique autos to the Canadian Customs Tariff Enquiry Board. Also that year PISRA was invited to send a panel of members and one of their cars to be part of a Vancouver based TV station’s program called “Sports Page.” Excellent coverage was given by the network and the club was able to publicly present its objectives and concerns regarding the sport of Street Rodding.
PISRA’s main objective is to keep united individuals with a common interest and to keep vehicle safety a priority. Throughout the years, the club has kept an active interest in Motor Vehicle Legislation and recently has given full support to the newly formed Specialty Vehicle Association of British Columbia.
Owning a pre-’49 auto is the only pre-requisite to becoming a member of PISRA. At present there are about 80 members, most residing in the lower mainland from Chilliwack to Vancouver, with a few in the Interior. Meetings are held on a monthly basis. A fee of $40.00 per year covers the whole family. PISRA was one of the first clubs to give equal voice to female members, several of whom have held executive and honorary positions.
PISRA sponsored at least two dances per year; participated in the Bradner, BC Victoria Day Parade by chauffeuring the May Queen and party; supported most local cars shows; has donated to the Crippled Children’s Fund; Maple Ridge Agriculture Committee and Bradner Community Club.
In November ‘85 Expo ‘86 invited our club to construct and displaya vehicle, a “50’s style hot rod.” This car would be on display throughout the length of the fair. It didn’t require an engine or any interior as the car had to be public proof as possible. This would be a hands-on display. The member taking on the responsibility of the Expo project was Doug Rutherford. The club purchased the car with Doug doing all the body and paint work. The car chosen for the project was a 1937 Chev 2-door Sedan. With all the needed rust repairs, body work and paint Doug did manage to complete the car on time. After all that work the car was not used at Expo ‘86. The club was reimbursed for expenses and Doug got to keep the car for his time and efforts.
In 2001 PISRA celebrated their 30th Anniversary. To commemorate this very special occasion the membership built a 1928 Ford 2-door Sedan based on the club logo. This street rod was raffled off and at the annual club banquet a very happy Lynn Lutz of Chilliwack drove home in her new/old car. All the funds generated were donated to one of PISRA’s favorite charities, the South Fraser Child Development Centre.
Canadian Street Rodding Hall of Fame Names the 2008 Inductees - The First Club or Association to be Inducted
There is no denying that hot rods and custom cars have been around since the earliest days of the automobile. But it was the rebirth and maturing of car clubs and associations in the late 60’s and early 70’s that fueled the street rod movement.
Often the emergence of these groups was due to the ideas and work of an individual or a small group of people with similar interests. Such is the case with 2008 Hall of Fame inductees, the Pacific International Street Rod Association (also known by the acronym PISRA), based on the lower mainland of British Columbia.
Their story goes back to the late 60’s when aspiring street rodder Gary Lang built a T-Bucket. He certainly enjoyed the car but it was a little lonely. He believed that there were other people dealing with the same issue so in a moment of inspiration, he placed an ad in a Vancouver newspaper asking those interested in pre-’49 street rods to meet. He was overwhelmed when 25 individuals showed up for that first gathering. Incidentally, many of these street rodders are still active in the hobby and continue to be members of PISRA.
As a result of that meeting, about 50 people motored to Swan’s Point for a Sunday street rod picnic. The year was 1970 and it marked the official rebirth of street rodding on the west coast.
Later that fall, under Gary’s direction, a weekend rod run was held at Cultus Lake with a dozen cars in attendance.
The following year Gary met two other industrious rodders, Bob Wharton and Gary Picard. At the next car show in Vancouver, they set up a booth and worked to compile a list of 200 people interested in street rods. As a result the name chose for the fledgling organization was the Pacific International Street Rod Association. This was in part to acknowledge the unique situation of members from both Canada and the United States.
Bob and the two Gary’s united the vast membership via a newsletter that continues today.
In 1972 the first Birch Bay, Washington run was held and later Gary Lang lead a group of Canadians to the “Old Timers” run in Tacoma. That year also marked the first official weekend rod run, later to become known as the “Family Affair,” based in Abbotsford and drawing some 45 cars from both sides of the border. “Family Affair” was destined to become one of the most publicized and well known street rod events in Canada.
In the fall of 1973 the club elected its first executive; under the guidance of this group PISRA grew and prospered. In ‘74 they again presented the Birch Bay and Family Affair rod runs and added a swap meet that would become an annual event.
In 2001 PISRA celebrated its 30th Anniversary. To commemorate this very special occasion with the membership building a 1928 Ford that was subsequently raffled off to Lynn Lutz of Chilliwack.
Present Day
The last few years have been a lot of fun. The club is attending numerous runs all over the province and the northern USA. Going on a run means finding somewhere good for breakfast and that has become the thing to do. Each time we plan an event, someone wants to know where we’re going to eat. This has become a major building block for our club. Each monthly meeting is started first by going to dinner as a big group, sometimes 36 people show up before a meeting. The walls come down as members get to know other members over dinner. Then it’s onto the business at hand. Meeting are held the second Thursday of the month at the Milner church in Langley.
Our club has become very flexible on eligibility requirements as the year restrictions have been lifted and all you require now is an interest in old cars and hotrods. We host a car show once a year, have club bar-b-ques, Christmas parties, and attend car shows & rod runs as a group and so on.
If this kind of thing sounds like fun, then let one of the members know and we’ll be more than happy to show you how you can be a member too…
Gary, in the meantime met two industrious fellows by the names of Bob Wharton and Gary Pickard, who later proved to possess what the sport was lacking – organization! At the next major car show in Vancouver they set up a booth and compiled a list of individuals interested in street rods. The list totaled 200, consisting of people from BC and Washington State. The time had come to give the group official status. The name chosen was “PACIFIC INTERNATIONAL STREET ROD ASSOCIATION” – more commonly known as PISRA.
Bob and the two Gary’s then began to unite the rodders with an occasional newsletter. Then in the spring of ’72 the first Birch Bay, Washington run was held. In July of the same year Gary encouraged a group of rodders to attend the “Old Timers” run in Tacoma, Washington. You can imagine the excitement when Gary’s T took “Best Engineered.” He was also presented with a special “Inspirational Award” in recognition of his encouragement and promotion of Canadian participation at the run. “72 also brought the trio’s first official weekend run later to be known as “FAMILY AFFAIR.” Based at the Davey Crockett Motel in Abbotsford the run drew 45 cars, many from the U.S. 1973 saw a similar slate of events with the same group still carrying most of the workload. It wasn’t until the fall of that year that the club would get its first Executive. Jim Flett, a knowledgeable CSRA rodder who had recently moved from Ontario became PISRA’s first Chairman; Gary Picard, Co-Chairman, Barb Gazso, Treasurer & Membership; Doreen White, Recording Secretary; Betty Blackburn, Corresponding Secretary, Dave Gazso, Tour Director and Bob Wharton, Editorial Director.
FAMILY AFFAIR - Barb Gazso
1972 saw the First Official Rod Run of the newly formed Pacific International Street Rod Association, based at the Davey Crockett Motel in Abbotsford. The run drew 45 cars; many from the U.S. Earlier in the year club members had traveled to Tacoma to attend the Old Timer’s run. They (Huh!) were surprised that we (Eh?) drove something other than dogsleds. Curiosity got the better of them and they attended our first rod run ever to see what else we had hidden in the bush and snow. The next two runs, 1973 and 1974, were also held at the Davy Crockett and because of the number of babies, pregnant PISRA women and the fact that Barb Gazso and Sue Pearson managed to deliver Lee and Danielle practically in the midst of things, the run became affectionately known as the “Family Affair.”
Those were great motel-based runs. A few camped in the truck stop next to the freeway and a lot just drove out for the day. We would start off Saturday with a police escorted parade through downtown Abbotsford and Clearbrook, making our way out to Bradner where the local community club graciously loaned us, free of charge, their beautiful park. Hot dog and corn roasts, volleyball and a tug-of-war anchored by Dave Stefanko the mighty. During the kids games, a T roadster appeared and out of the back jumped a gorilla, many were permanently altered that day. Many moms wished they had brought an extra pair of drawers for their youngsters. Not to forget the straw scramble when the sweaty little tykes dove in to get a prize and then returned to dad’s rod with straw particles sticking everywhere. When the evening drew nigh we would motor back to the motel for a banquet dinner and boogie the night away. I recall in 1973, bringing a large taped reel of Creedance Clearwater Revival to that dance and we played it all night long. And who can forget those that arrived dressed in 50’s style?
Up until 1975, the annual weekend run had always been motel-based but when the attendance figure for '74 reached 150, the club had to change the location. The first campout at the Abbotsford Campground on the side of Sumas Mountain became known as the "mud run." A torrent of rain sent many home but for those that stayed, we chased greased pigs, got lost on Sumas Prairie and wore hillbilly costumes to the dance held on the dirt driveway. The music of the hour was "Doobie Brothers" and the attendance was 190.
The club was fortunate in 1976, 77 & 78 to be able to obtain the ample facilities of the Mission Raceway. An exciting racing event was added to the program with our own Perry Enns showing many how to become “King of the Hill.” This was the start of the famous scavenger hunt for the kids and the appearance of the A&W Root Bear. During one of these years at Mission, the local police came to investigate as it had been reported to them that a native was selling fish at the run. (Diazuk was barbequing fish again!) The dance was held at the end of the track and I can’t report on the music, only on the fact that you had to walk down to the end in the dark and that pesky gorilla kept jumping out and grabbing you. The guys didn’t have this problem?? Sadly the raceway closed and we were on the move again.
1975 saw us at Haney Fairgrounds. This is a run I would prefer to forget as the grounds were not wonderful and the weather was equally as bad. The show and shine was, however, rather nostalgic as it was held on the old roundy-round track where we had watched the stock car races as teenagers. This saw the first Best Rad Bug contest, Best Rod Hat and Best Concealed Beer contest. Do you know what it’s like to try and explain to Woo Fat that you are looking for a rad bug on his T? Some clown from Vancouver Island arrived wearing his grandmother’s sun bonnet and another captured the prize for Best Concealed Beer by putting his can in the guts of a flashlight – whatever!
1980-1995: Chilliwack Fairgrounds. 16 years, can you believe it? They all tend to blend together, but here are some of my memories:
Gorgeous campsite under the maple trees where the grandstand sits, Showers!, “Lunatics” cooking a joint of beef over a fire, First Nations providing the yummy BBQ salmon on hospitality night, Teen dances and lip sync contests, Pony rides, magicians and puppet shows, Elvis impersonator Randy Friske – wasn’t he great? When Boston Pizza gave us boxes for the hospitality bag and then you could take the box and they would give you a free pizza. Hit with the kids! A&W night cruise, Wanderers band that entertained the kids on Friday night and made us adults dance to the wee hours of the morn, Days and nights so hot that we had to put up garden sprinklers for the participants to run in and the band playing inside with everyone outside in the cool! The Langley Loafers putting on the “Tour de Valley” and “Rodder Olympics.” All the other poker runs, the Chilliwack guys and gals out-do themselves, Trotting horses on the track at sunrise, Fire alarms and 10-4 radios all night long!! Oh! And not to forget “Captain Hotrod” whom I’m told is some Prince George guy and then those crazy Americans doing the “jungle jive.” The Sunday morning awards with Doug Curran; does an outstanding job, doesn’t he? The look on those little ones faces as they carried off a bike, a very large pink bunny or a wallet of case. Nor more dogs!! This, my friends, is 25 years of Family Affair, hope you had fun ☺
In 2000, due to new construction, Family Affair moved from Chilliwack Fairgrounds. The new site chosen was the Atchelitz Threshermen’s Association grounds in Chilliwack. The event was held here for two years ending Family Affair on our 30th Anniversary in 2001.
A number of smaller events were held over the next ten years, from garage tours, show & shines to poker runs and smaller picnics. In the back of our minds , we knew another Family Affair Reunion was due so plans were set in motion for our 40th in 2011.
Our 40th Anniversary Show held at the old Langley Speedway in Langley BC. This show was a huge success, just over 250 cars showed up to remember what an old Family Affair event used to be. We started with a Poker Run that ended up at the Langley Airport and pictures with an antique plane as a back drop before returning to the Raceway. Large tents were installed to display a vast collection of PISRA memorabilia and pictures. One display had a sample of almost every t- shirt ever sold at a PISRA Family Affair event. Another tent had a half dozen large photo albums spread onto a collection of tables and Frank Parker videos running in the background against a screen. The Lions Club supplied a lunch for all attending as many long lost contacts and friends exchanged hellos and what are you up these days…. In Family Affair fashion, we handed out over 100 prizes to those who attended. The biggest prize was the cast Chrome Grill badge participants received when they signed it. It was truly the hit “Dash Plaque” of the run season in 2011.
Unfortunately, 2001 was the last “Family Affair” rod run. A shrinking and aging membership base combined with sky-rocketing costs had taken the fun out of hosting a major weekend event.
Through the hard work and dedication of the club came the founding of the Specialty Vehicle Association of BC (SVABC.)
Over the years PISRA has become a leading organization with few peers. They continue to be active in the SVABC and the National Association of Antique Automobile Clubs of Canada as well as hosting the Coastal Swap Meet; the largest in western Canada.
Another measure of PISRA’s success is the number of clubs that they have helped establish. These include: the Vancouver Island Street Rod Association in Victoria, BC, N. Cascade Street Rod in Mt. Vernon, Washington, the Okanagan Rodtiques in Summerland, BC and the Fraser Valley Rods in Langley, BC.
Quite a legacy from a group that was founded in 1971 with two main goals: Uniting street rod enthusiasts and promoting safety in the maintenance and operation of street rods 50 years later PISRA is still a going concern and continues to reflect street rodding in Canada in a most positive way.
The Canadian Street Rodding Hall of Fame started in 1994 to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the Canadian Street Rod Association.
The Hall of Fame recognizes individuals, groups and corporations who have made significant contributions to the growth and improvements of street rodding in Canada. The alumni represent all facets of the hobby across Canada.
PISRA is the 40th inductee into the Canadian Street Rodding Hall of Fame. Rob Petty, the current Chairman and Ron Wenger, one of the original members of Pacific International Street Rod Association was presented the award, for the first club or association to be inducted, by Jim Cowan, Canadian Street Rodding Hall of Fame Chairman.
Present Day
The last few years have been a lot of fun. The club is attending numerous runs all over the province and the northern USA. Going on a run means finding somewhere good for breakfast and that has become the thing to do. Each time we plan an event, someone wants to know where we’re going to eat. This has become a major building block for our club. Each monthly meeting is started first by going to dinner as a big group, sometimes 36 people show up before a meeting. The walls come down as members get to know other members over dinner. Then it’s onto the business at hand. Meeting are held the second Thursday of the month at the Milner church in Langley.
Our club has become very flexible on eligibility requirements as the year restrictions have been lifted and all you require now is an interest in old cars and hotrods. We host a car show once a year, have club bar-b-ques, Christmas parties, and attend car shows & rod runs as a group and so on.
If this kind of thing sounds like fun, then let one of the members know and we’ll be more than happy to show you how you can be a member too…
Questions?
Have a look at our Facebook page or get in touch with us via the form below.