The 2025 O’Reilly Auto Parts Grand National Roadster Show (GNRS) marked a momentous occasion, celebrating its illustrious 75th anniversary. The venerable America’s Most Beautiful Roadster (AMBR) competition was at the heart of this grand event, complemented by the distinguished Al Slonaker Memorial Award.
In a dazzling display, 11 newly crafted roadsters vied for the sought-after AMBR title and a generous prize of $12,500 sponsored by ARP. This impressive array featured an agreeable mix: a captivating T-bucket, two classic Model As, three stylish 1936 Fords, and five stunning 1932 Fords. Each vehicle was meticulously designed, destined to fascinate both judges and spectators alike. Notably, three vibrant orange 1932 Ford highboy roadsters graced the lineup—an uncommon sight that piqued interest.
Within this elite ensemble, Ross Myers’ 1936 Ford roadster, a true masterpiece created by Rad Rides by Troy under project manager Adam Banks, stood out triumphantly, claiming the coveted title of America’s Most Beautiful Roadster. This stunning vehicle highlighted extraordinary craftsmanship, featuring innovative modifications that enhanced its elegance. With a powerful blown Y-block engine mounted on a custom chassis equipped with torsion bar suspension and Ridetech adjustable shocks, it effortlessly melded performance with aesthetics. Dressed in a modified Porsche Aventurine Green metallic finish, the roadster showcased a fully custom leather interior, sleek suicide doors, and a hand-built lift-off top. Myers took home the prestigious title and secured his name on the award’s majestic 9-foot-plus perpetual trophy alongside hot rodding legends of the past 75 years, complemented by the $12,500 prize from ARP. (For more details on this incredible build, visit modernrodding.com for six insightful articles.)
The Al Slonaker Memorial Award featured a parallel talent showcase with 12 exceptional builds competing for the best non-roadster title. Among the Slonaker contenders were Angelo Amadeo with his striking Roseville Rod & Custom–built 1932 Ford coupe and Bill Barbato showcasing his CAL Auto–built 1933 Plymouth sedan. Highlighting the diversity were Bruce Charles with his homebuilt 1935 International truck, Greg Heinrich’s Ironworks Speed & Kustom–built 1935 Chevy coupe, and Patrick Kelly’s customized, homebuilt 1955 Ford F-100. Other remarkable entries included Doug Mergenthaler’s Eckert’s Rod & Custom–built 1969 Plymouth Road Runner, Oscar Munoz’s Munoz & Sons 1938 Chevy panel, and Beth Myers’ Iron Hill Hot Rods’ 1932 Ford coupe, rounding out this impressive display of talent.
Taking home the Slonaker honors was the stunning 1933 Pontiac sedan belonging to Bill and Angela Barbato, celebrated for its Art Deco styling and built on a custom frame by Liquid Metalworks. Its exquisite AuraBella Gold finish highlighted the wedge-chopped and wedge-sectioned body, complemented by a custom grille and handcrafted running boards. The luxurious interior showcased contoured leather with diamond-pattern stitching, an Art Deco–inspired steering wheel, and a distinctive dash featuring Pontiac-inspired details that perfectly matched the overall design. It is also packed with incredible power, boasting a 400-inch Pontiac V-8 engine fitted with an 8-71 BDS blower and a 4L80E transmission from Bowler Performance Transmissions. Barbato proudly walked away with the $12,500 prize sponsored by ARP.
The atmosphere throughout Building 9 presented by the Petersen Automotive Museum was electric, showcasing tributes to automotive icons like the legendary George Barris, the original “King of Kustomizers.” Twelve of Barris’ iconic creations were among the notable displays, including the illustrious Hirohata Merc and the famed Batmobile. The excitement continued with the induction of influential figures into the GNRS Hall of Fame, celebrating the contributions of automotive pioneers with 194 names honored over the years. A special recognition was given to Eric Geisert for his dedication in making this project a reality.
Adding to the excitement, Bill Ganahl and the team at South City Rod and Custom were honored as the 2025 GNRS Builder of the Year. Since its founding in 2008, Ganahl’s shop has received acclaim for its custom builds and classic restorations, and attendees enjoyed a stunning showcase of their work in Building 4.
A special thanks to ARP (Automotive Racing Products) for their support of our Documentary.
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