With over 90 Firebirds and...
With over 90 Firebirds and Trans Ams in attendance, the Ban One show featured examples from all four generations, which came from 13 states and Canada.
Next show date: May 7, 2011
Location: Summit Racing Retail Superstore, McDonough, Georgia
Website: www.banoneshow.com
Since 2008 and for three years running, the Ban One show has brought Trans Ams and Firebirds eastbound and down to the home of Smokey and the Bandit (McDonough, Georgia, a suburb of Atlanta), allowing owners and their cars to enjoy a fantastic one-day car show open to all Firebirds at the Summit Racing Superstore.
Stephen Drivick of Woodstock,...
Stephen Drivick of Woodstock, Georgia, displays his Ban One show award, which he won with his modified ’95 Bright White Firebird (not shown). Similar-looking awards were handed out to all the winners.
Founded by Firebird-hobbyist John Kirkbride, the event grew to over 90 Firebirds in 2010 merely through word-of-mouth and Internet forum chats. "It only stands to reason that Atlanta hosts a Firebird and Trans Am show, especially given the South's connection with the movie Smoky and the Bandit and the Trans Am," Kirkbride says. "A mere three miles from the show field is the McDonough Town Square, which is hallowed ground for Trans Am owners as one of the filming locations for the movie."
Last year's show featured Firebirds and Trans Ams from all four generations, and owners from mostly the Southeast and Midwest. One T/A owner from Canada even participated in the event and won the Long Distance Award.
Instead of traditional car show trophies, winners are awarded Ban One awards that look like personalized license plates. They are given out to First through Fifth places in 14 classes, along with several specialty awards including longest-distance traveled and club-participation winners. "The Bandit would give these plaques a big 10-4," Kirkbride says.