DECATUR -- "131" shouted one police officer to another as a steady stream of hot cars and even a dragster roared down the runway at Crystal Lake Airport June 13 in Decatur. The number the officer referred to was the top speed of the high-performance car just before it shut down near the end of the runway.
Around 20 high-performance machines gathered at the airport in Decatur for the first Exotic Experience Car Show that showcased some of the most powerful cars in the world.
Included in the impressive list of cars were the Dodge Viper ACR, Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, Ford Mustang GT, and even a Cadillac Hennessey, a high-performance luxury vehicle.
Also making its presence known throughout the afternoon was the Lamborghini Huracan and Gallardo Spyder, and the Ferrari 488.
No matter whether it was foreign or domestic exotic cars, each made an indelible impression on the spectators as they raced down the asphalt runway pushing speeds between 135 to 145 miles per hour.
Car enthusiasts were given a chance to ride in any one of the machines. For a mere $20 for a single ride or $30 for three rides, the average Joe was able to experience the exhilarating performance of these high-performance marvels. Rides began at 12:30 p.m. and concluded at 5 p.m. A steady stream of cars roared down the runway almost continuously throughout that time period.
The event also featured Alexis Campbell and her rail drag racer. Now 17, Campbell has been on the high school race circuit for two years. The drag racing scene has become a family affair for the Campbells since her father is her crew chief and mechanic and her mother helps manage the business.
More than exotic cars were on display during the show. Classic Corvettes, Mustangs and Camaros and even a Chevy pickup greeted visitors as they walked down the driveway leading to the airport hangars.
Because of the weather, Phillipp Steinbach and his GB-1 Gamebird were unable to make the flight to Decatur. However, an RV8 aircraft from the Experimental Aircraft Association chapter in Little Rock was on display during most of the afternoon until its departure for home at 3:30 p.m.
The car show was organized by the Exotic Drive Club of Northwest Arkansas, which is based in Rogers. All proceeds benefited the Decatur Police Department and the Rogers Fraternal Order of Police.
General News on 06/19/2019