Clifford Truck Show Scores Again

The seventh annual Antique and Classic Truck Show organized by the Great Lakes Truck Club was another success. Back in 2010 its first running attracted some 80 trucks and the organizers, a straight-shooting bunch of truck lovers, were a little surprised to have that many. In 2011 there were about 120 rigs, and the show was firmly on the map. This year the count was 285 -- the most yet -- on the fair grounds in Clifford, Ont., two hours northwest of Toronto. Fans suffered cold, wet weather on Friday, July 1, but Saturday was a perfect day to walk amongst some of the coolest rides around. Almost every possible marque was represented, from Marmon to Diamond T, including Harry Compagner's 1997 Scania 144 all the way from just outside Fredericton. Uniquely, there's no competition for awards. This is a no-judging show and will stay that way, according to show organizers. They're adamant that the event is simply a chance for people who enjoy trucks, and classics especially, to share their enthusiasms. Vendors are kept to a minimum. This year's crowd favorites included Steve Constantin's near perfect 1980 International Transtar 4070 with matching trailer. Michael Cronyn's immaculate 2005 Peterbilt 379 in powder-blue paint caught our eye, and Philip Heard's four Freightliners included a 1/3-scale replica of a Classic XL. Steve Moser's 1948 International KB-7 is one we've seen before but it's a lovely sight. Cabovers aplenty included H.S. Knill's 1974 Dodge 1000, which takes the 'slab' front idea literally. The show is easily the largest such affair in Canada.