The 3rd Annual Chino Valley Territorial Days Car Show is now in the books. With over 100 entries and perfect weather—not too hot, just enough sun—it made for an enjoyable day all around.
The event benefited the Chino Valley Memorial Foundation (CVMF), founded in 2018 by Larry Holt, a retired police chief and Chino Valley resident. CVMF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to funding, renovating, and maintaining memorials honoring first responders and active-duty military members from Yavapai County who lose their lives in the line of duty. The Foundation also promotes public education and positive communication between the community, first responders, and military members.
A powerful part of this mission is the memorial’s focal point: an actual steel beam from the New York City Twin Towers that fell on 9/11. If you haven’t visited the memorial, it’s located at the entrance of Shooting Range Road—well worth a few minutes of reflection for those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Participants could preregister or sign up on-site, and registration went smoothly. With a variety of vendors, displays, and yes—plenty of event food—there was lots to enjoy. As a smaller show, the venue still offers room to grow, potentially doubling its capacity. The entry fee was a reasonable $35 for preregistered vehicles.
The show featured four classes:
- Early pre-’60s cruisers
- Late post-’60s cruisers
- Early pre-’60s hot rods
- Late post-’60s hot rods
For a show this size, the class breakdown worked well. After all, most of us aren’t there for another dust-collecting trophy—we’re there to see friends, swap stories, get some fresh air, and enjoy the day. Kudos to the organizers for giving us a great reason to bring out our pride and joy.
Music played throughout the day—not too loud, just right—and food trucks and vendors kept everyone fed. Raffle prizes were plentiful for those hoping to score something cool while supporting a meaningful cause.
The event was judged, and awards were presented as winners drove past the announcer for recognition. Everything wrapped up around 1:30 p.m., getting everyone home before the heat kicked in.
This year’s show was a strong one, raising $3,500 in a single day in support of our first responders and active-duty military killed in the line of duty. It was a great opportunity to show appreciation for those who protect and serve.
