The second annual Carlisle Hurst Nationals is upon us. The Carlisle Hurst Nationals is a show that runs at the same time as the Carlisle Chrysler Nationals at the Carlisle Expo Center from July 13-14. Last year there was a great turnout, and this year is slated to be the same. There will undoubtedly be all sorts of exciting and rare vehicles out there, but what is surely going to be a highlight of the show, are the men who made these fabled automobiles — the guys behind Hurst! 

When most people hear the name, “Hurst,” they think, “Oldsmobile,” as in Hurst/Olds. The 2018 year marks an important year in the history of Hurst, because it is the 50th anniversary of the legendary partnership. As such, there will be a celebration displaying the cars that Hurst built to show Oldsmobile execs their vision. 

In theme with the anniversary and celebration, there will be Hurst engineers and employees at the show including Don Glover, and Jim Kerr. Glover was a Hurst engineer who had a hand in many of the Hurst builds over the years. Kerr spent countless hours at the races fixing problems racers might have had with their Hurst shifters. 

An example of the kind of thing you’ll see at the show. Photo from mecum.com.

Another feature of the show will be the 1968 Hemi Dart, and Barracuda Super Stocks, that go by, “Lo,” and, “Bo.” These two cars were the result of a partnership between Chrysler and Hurst to convert bone stock Darts and Barracudas to Hemi-powered Super Stock Legal monsters. They accomplished this by lightening the cars with fiberglass body panels, and thinner glass. These cars still run today in their own NHRA class, and should be a big attraction at the show.

Last but certainly not least, is the announcement of another Hurst employee who will be at the show. Special guest- Linda Vaughn. Thats right, Miss Hurst Golden Shifter herself will be part of the Carlisle Hurst Nationals. For those of you who have been living under a rock, Linda Vaughn was a powerhouse in the automotive world in a time when the industry was dominated by men. In the early ‘60s Vaughn brought sex-appeal to every type of major motorsports event and competition there was. This year she will be at Carlisle meeting fans, signing autographs, posing for photos, and talking about her time with Hurst as one of the trailblazing women in motorsports. 

The Unforgettable Linda Vaughn. Photo from usatoday.com.

With so much to see at this year’s Carlisle Hurst Nationals, you won’t want to miss it. From the all the vehicles of different makes and models featuring Hurst badges, to the employees that made the name Hurst what it is today, there will be something for everyone. The event will feature indoor and outdoor car displays, and while you’re there head across the street and check out the Chrysler Nationals. 

Check back with CarlisleEvents.com for updates on the event, and tickets.