Three car shows this summer and I finally understand the culture. The first one I showed up without a detail kit, without a show cloth, without any preparation — just drove the car in and parked it. The second time I brought basic supplies. The third time I spent two days prepping the car beforehand.

The difference was visible in every way including, apparently, to the judges. Third show, I came home with a class trophy.

More importantly, the people. The conversations that happen around a row of classics at 7 AM before the show opens are worth the entry fee alone.