Orlando Travel Blog

Automobile enthusiasts from all over the Sunshine State will gather to celebrate the 25th-anniversary of the River Ranch Rod Run “Cowboys and Cars” Show on Saturday, January 25, 2014, from 9 AM to 4 PM at Westgate River Ranch – Florida’s largest dude ranch! Produced by car enthusiasts Rich and Linda Martin of Sunshine State Rodding News, the River Ranch Rod Run at Westgate River Ranch is considered one of the largest single day car shows in Florida.

More than 400 vehicles – including Street Rods, Customs, Classics, Antique Trucks, Antique Vans and Motorcycles – will be showcased for this milestone year of the River Ranch Rod Run at Westgate River Ranch – the only resort in Florida where guests can arrive by Land, Sea or Air. Cars will be eligible for a variety of door prizes in addition to awards for Longest Distance Traveled, Hard Luck and Club Participation, as well as a “Rancher’s Choice” award.

“When we first considered hosting the event at Westgate River Ranch, we were not really sure that people would actually drive 30 miles to the middle of nowhere to attend but it’s amazing how the event has grown over the years,” said co-organizer Rich Martin. “People can drive their car to the show, park it and take advantage of everything Westgate River Ranch has to offer.”

The perfect locale for the annual Rod Run, Westgate River Ranch, which recently underwent a multi-million renovation in 2013, features something for everyone – including horseback riding, a full-service marina, trap & skeet range, archery range, nine-hole golf course, airboat and swamp buggy rides, petting farm with pony rides, hiking trails, video arcade and old-fashioned hayrides. Kids of all ages will enjoy the new Adventure Park with its 300-foot zip line, rock climbing wall, mechanical bull, bungee jumper and 18-hole miniature golf course. In addition, Westgate River Ranch hosts the longest-running Saturday night championship rodeo in the United States with trick riding, bull riding, calf roping and barrel racing at the 1,200-seat Rodeo Arena. A lively Street Party takes place immediately following the rodeo. Westgate River Ranch also boasts Florida cowboy-themed accommodations, the award-winning Westgate Smokehouse Grill, River Ranch Saloon and general store with deli.

“Each year, the River Ranch Rod Run draws a loyal crowd of car lovers and this year as we celebrate the event’s Silver Anniversary, we hope to share it with even more people,” said Jennifer Gallagher, Director of Events at Westgate River Ranch. “We welcome everyone to come out and enjoy a day of family friendly fun, marvel at these impeccably maintained cars and explore Westgate River Ranch – the best kept secret in Central Florida.”

For more information about the 2014 River Ranch Rod Run at Westgate River Ranch, visit www.westgatedestinations.com/florida/westgate-river-ranch/events/rod-run.