The 37th annual Run to the Sun in Myrtle Beach delivered once again, proving why it remains one of the premier classic car gatherings in the country. With more than 3,000 vehicles in attendance, the event continues to showcase not just cars, but the passion, creativity, and culture that surround them.
With a vehicle cutoff year of 1989, the show offers an incredible mix of machines. From lifted school buses to some of the most original and well-preserved classic muscle cars still on the road, the variety is what makes this event stand out year after year. No two rows look the same, and that’s exactly the point.
This year’s trip was made in my 1968 Ford F-100, now powered by a transplanted engine from a 1995 Mustang. Outside of that swap, the truck remains largely untouched—still running a three-speed column shifter, drum brakes, and even a non-working AM radio. Simple, raw, and old-school, it handled the trip without issue as we put just over 600 miles on it round trip.
A special thank you goes out to Tad Moon for his hard work in getting the truck dependable enough to make the journey. Anyone who’s taken an older vehicle on a trip like that knows how important that kind of effort is.
One of the best parts of Run to the Sun is the inspiration it provides. Over the years, I’ve picked up countless ideas for my own builds just walking the show. It pushes you away from cookie-cutter modifications and reminds you that creativity still has a strong place in the car world.
I’d also like to recognize the many people who make this event possible each year. From my own experience being part of the original team that helped start and host Mustang Week, I know firsthand that putting on a show of this size in a city like Myrtle Beach is no small task. The behind-the-scenes work, planning, and expense most people never see is what keeps everything running smoothly year after year.
A big congratulations goes out to Alan and Jennifer Bates with their 1955 Chevy Bel Air from Summerville, South Carolina, along with Steve and Thelma Demarco and John Clapper with their 1950 Chevy 3100 truck from Clinton, North Carolina. These builds represent the heart of what this event is all about—dedication, craftsmanship, and pride in the details.
I also want to thank the 100+ men and women who volunteer and work behind the scenes each year. From early mornings to long days, their commitment is what brings Run to the Sun to life and keeps it growing.
Run to the Sun isn’t just a car show—it’s a community built around giving back.
The event proudly supports several incredible charities, including the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Children’s Miracle Network at McLeod Children’s Hospital, The McLeod Foundation, Horry County Sheriff’s Benevolent Fund, Carolina Forest NJROTC Booster Club, Grand Strand Miracle League, Florence Miracle League, Boys & Girls Club of the Grand Strand, and St. Matthew’s Charitable Works Food Pantry.
Through efforts such as the charity auction benefiting the National MS Society—where 100% of proceeds are donated—and the 50/50 raffle supporting McLeod Children’s Hospital, the impact of this event goes far beyond the show field.
Thanks to the continued support of participants, sponsors, and attendees, Run to the Sun has donated $225,000 over the past four years and an incredible $2.3 million since 1987—and that number continues to grow every year.
That level of impact is only possible because of the people who show up, give back, and keep the tradition alive.
