Citroëns at Carlisle 2022

By Brad Nauss…..

Over 25 Citroëns of various years and models attended the Carlisle Import & Performance Nationals at the Carlisle Fairgrounds on May 13 & 14. The yearly Citroëns at Carlisle meeting was just a small part of the overall show, but was one of the most active.

Overall attendance was strong. The Import Fun Showfield included spaces for cars from every region of the world. You could find examples of pretty much every imported automotive manufacturer. At last report, there were 1,802 show cars on the field. (See photos posted by Carlisle Events at: https://www.flickr.com/photos/carlisle-events/albums/72177720299005814/page1.)

Citroënthusiasts started to arrive Thursday, and an impromptu dinner get-together was arranged at the last minute, with 16 joining for dinner at Gilligan’s Grill in Mechanicsburg. A great evening of food and friendship was had by all.

Friday morning, several Citroëns joined “The Great Road Trip” Kennedy’s Disease sponsored 2CV as it arrived at the Import Show for its “grand entrance” with a parade around the fairgrounds. We were very pleased that they took the time and arranged their schedule so they could join us for Friday and Saturday.

Friday was a very nice Spring day, and those attending enjoyed renewing friendships, seeing the Citroëns and other vehicles on display, as well as the flea market and food court. Just a short rain shower arrived late in the day to settle the dust. Then the sun came back out and made for a nice end of the day. Small groups found their way to various restaurant venues for dinner in the evening.

Saturday morning began as an overcast day, which for most of us was much more comfortable than full hot sun. Citroëns began to arrive early morning. An estimated 25 Citroëns were on the show field . Many models from Traction Avant to C6 were in attendance. Cars were driven from many states in the USA, Canada, and even a 2CV from UK (by way of California).

The Robert Opron Display (arranged by the Renault Club, led by Marvin McFalls) included examples of Opron’s design work over the years. Citroën models on display included a GS, a 1969 DS, and an SM. It was well attended throughout the show. Special thanks to the Renault Club and Marvin for their efforts to make this happen.

Saturday morning’s seminar was led by Darren Arthur, at the Citroëns at Carlisle tent. It was a fun and informative look at the “Great Road Trip” and their first leg which started in southern CA and ended up in Philadelphia. He spoke about the experiences of driving a 2CV across the USA and Canada, as well as their experiences and interactions with the people they met along the way.

Saturday afternoon at 1PM, a seminar was presented at the main Grandstand by the Kennedy’s Disease Association. Terry Thompson gave information about the disease and their association’s mission to inform the public, help with fund raising, and facilitate research to try to find a cure.

Saturday afternoon at 3:15 PM, the Robert Opron seminar was presented and was well attended.

Saturday evening at 6:30 PM our group of 50 were hosted by our friend and fellow Citroën collector George Lois at Fiddler’s Restaurant Pavillion at Mayapple Golf Course. Great food and fellowship were enjoyed by all in attendance. The beer on tap was sponsored by George Lois and Brad & Anna May Nauss. After a few short comments, recognizing those who helped make the weekend possible, and those who drove from great distances to attend, Brad dedicated the evening to the Kennedy’s Disease Association. Brad and Anna May challenged those attending to join in supporting the cause by making a donation to the Association. Thank you to all who donated, it was greatly appreciated. Brad announced the “People’s Choice” award winners and presented certificates. To end the evening of fun, numbers were drawn for door prizes. A special thank you to all who donated door prizes, including Citroën related businesses and individuals.

List of People’s Choice winners:

• Best Early D Series — TIE — Dean Anderson / David Bernstein
• Best Late D Series — Steven Bandy
• Best 2CV sedan — George Dyke
• Best 2CV Truckette — Manny Barreiros
• Best Ami — Gert Larsen
• Best SM — Brian Peters
• Best XM — Antonio Conceicao
• Best GS — Brent Bartly
• Best Traction Avant – Carl Erb (with his 15/6)
• Best Citroën “Special Category” — Sid Ellner (with a C6)
• Best of Show — Steven Bandy (1972 DS)

See also: https://citroenvie.com/toronto-to-carlisle-with-the-great-road-trip/