THE CENTRAL FLORIDA CLASSIC THUNDERBIRD CLUB BY NIKKI HOFFMAN

THE CENTRAL FLORIDA CLASSIC THUNDERBIRD CLUB

The Ford Thunderbird is a classic chapter in American auto history and has a heritage all its own. The car, with its unique features and styling, made its first public appearance at Detroit’s 1954 auto show. This personal luxury car was the first Ford two-seater since 1938, as well as the most expensive Ford available. 

The rich history of the Ford Thunderbird is one that Ralph Cowell knows well. He reorganized the Central Florida chapter of the Classic Thunderbird Club International, which now boasts eighty members!

Last month, Harbor Hills Country Club was the preferred venue for fun and brunch. Fourteen birds parked under the portico in front of the clubhouse. It was a unique display and a great picture-taking opportunity for the forty-five attendees. Harbor Hills neighbor Annette Rystrom enjoys her 1956 T-bird as well as Steve and Eileen Gordon, proud owners of both a 1955 Baby Bird and the 2005 50th anniversary Bird. Steve explained that it took almost two years for the couple to find the right red one that matched, but they did!

An exciting gathering of the Classic Thunderbird Club International (CTCI) will be held at the Wildwood Community Center on October 24-28. To date, there are registrations from 29 states, including Hawaii and Alaska. 

A trip to Dezerland Action Park in Orlando and a visit to view the private collection of Warren Webker’s classic cars in Mt. Dora are two spectacular events planned for the 282 participants. The week wraps up with a driving tour of eighty T-birds to Don Garlit’s Museum of Drag Racing and a tour by “Big Daddy” himself! For more information on the Central Florida Classic Thunderbird Club or the CTCI, contact Ralph Cowell at rotaryralph@hotmail.com.