The 2008 Hot Rod Magazine Pump Gas Drags, Presented By Comp Cams, had a kick off party last night in the heart of Memphis. Historic Beale Street saw many of the people who will be participating in this years event take a break from prepping their cars to blow off a little steam.
The kickoff party was something new this year that the people form COMP Cams came up with as an idea for everyone to hang out and relax the night before the event. The Coyote Ugly was the gathering spot for the participants, the crew of Hot Rod Magazine, including editor Rob Kinnan, and many of the people from COMP Cams.
On top of just a good time on the town, COMP invited a few local show cars to present the event on Beale Street. Although they were not the cars necessarily participating in the Pump Gas Drags, they were certainly pretty to look at and was a classic site on this historic street.
The Coyote Ugly lived up to it's hype as the on the edge place you see in the movies and on TV. The bartenders entertained us with dancing and whacky contests like the best boots of the night for men and the most attractive shoes for the women hosted by the local Classic Rock station, Rock 103.
Beale street has always been known for great live music, drinks, and fun and that was certainly the case here tonight. "This is going to be a new tradition for COMP Cams," says Chris Douglas, marketing manager for the COMP Performance Group. "it will take the edge off and relieve some of the stresses from the big day we have in store for tomorrow. This year we're expecting more cars, more activities, and a much larger crowd."
Some of the activities at COMP Cams on Saturday include a dunk tank, the famous COMP Cams Engine Builder Duel that debuted on Power Tour last year, and a variety of raffles, contests, and free for all's for the loyal event fans. "Last year we had a great event," says Matt Sadler, marketing coordinator for COMP. "but this year, we expect it to be even better. We really want to show that this a event for the real automotive enthusiasts, not just drag racers. Some of the cars we'll see this weekend are cars you wouldn't expect to see out on a drag strip. They pack beauty and speed all together and thats what really makes this event stand out."
The atmosphere of not only the bar and car show were something to experience, but really the whole of Beale Street it self really leaves an impression for visitors. You should put it on your calendar for next year to be here, and not to miss the kickoff party.
~ The PowerTV Team