Crowds Cruise Through Downtown for Waterfest 2025 Car & Bike Show
The streets of downtown Excelsior Springs were packed with chrome, horsepower, and proud owners during Saturday’s Car & Bike Show, one of Waterfest’s most anticipated annual traditions. Lining the streets with muscle cars, rat rods, and restored classics, the event drew a large crowd eager to admire the craftsmanship and creativity of each entry.
This year’s Car Show was proudly sponsored once again by Jones Custom and Collision Center, whose continued support has helped elevate the event to one of the highlights of Waterfest weekend. With trophies awarded in multiple categories, the competition was fierce — and the results did not disappoint.
Car Show Winners
Best in Show:
Brad Heckman of Kansas City, Missouri
1967 Chevy Nova
Taking home top honors at this year’s Custom Car, Hot Rod, and Truck Show was Brad Heckman of Kansas City, Missouri, with his striking 1967 Chevy Nova. This deep blue beauty turned heads all day long and ultimately earned the coveted Best in Show title.
Chamber’s Choice:
Scott & Christina Cross of Lawson, Missouri
1970 AAR Cuda Plymouth
This show-stopping Mopar muscle car featured eye-catching red and black detailing and a roaring powerplant under the hood, earning top honors from the Excelsior Springs Chamber of Commerce.
Best Paint:
Abel Garza of Overland Park, Kansas
1970 Chevy Camaro Z28
Abel’s bold yellow and black Camaro, equipped with a massive blower and polished to perfection, took home the trophy for its flawless and attention-grabbing paint job.
Best Engine:
Brandon Patrick of Excelsior Springs, Missouri
1928 Ford Model A Sedan Rat Rod
Brandon’s radically customized Rat Rod featured exposed turbo piping and a raw industrial aesthetic that showcased ingenuity and engine power.
Best Interior:
Dave Steffenella of Lawson, Missouri
1967 Camaro Yenko Tribute
With finely stitched upholstery and a tribute design to the rare Yenko Camaros of the late ’60s, Dave’s Camaro earned praise for attention to detail and craftsmanship inside and out.
Bike Show Winners
The Waterfest Bike Show would not be possible without the generous sponsorship of Boopy Locks and Boopertone, whose ongoing support helps make this new tradition thrive. From judging to hospitality, their involvement brings energy and excitement to the event every year.
Best in Show & 1st Place in First Division:
Eric Jones debuted his beautifully restored 1970 Triumph, claiming top honors in his first-ever show appearance. He was joined by his wife Danielle and sponsor Betty Evans for the award presentation.
2nd Place – First Division:
Larry Test’s Harley Davidson wowed judges with its striking orange and blue custom paint and flawless chrome work.
3rd Place – First Division:
Billy Cosign and comfort-driven customization.
1st Place Second Division:
Marie Franke took home the top women’s trophy for her standout ride, proudly representing female riders in this year’s competition.
2nd Place – Second Division:
Jason Nave’s custom chrome-heavy ’09 Heritage Harley captured the spotlight and earned him a strong finish in the second division.
3rd Place – Second Division:
With its custom Harley deep purple finish and smooth ride, Brian and Kim Carmichael’s Harley Davidson was a favorite among fans and judges alike.
With food trucks, live music, and the Kids Splash Zone just steps away, the Car & Bike Show was part of a weekend filled with family-friendly fun. Thanks to all the participants, judges, sponsors, and volunteers who helped make this a revved-up highlight of Waterfest 2025!
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