Carlmont’s Car Club held its first car show of the year where students could gather to show off their cars.
At Saturday’s showing, which took place in Carlmont’s senior parking lot, students and their family members revved up their engines and discussed their car models with the other attendees.
The show created an opportunity for like-minded enthusiasts to come together. Stephen Panagiotopoulos, a senior, took the role of president this year and continues to grow the group.
“Our focus is to get people to participate and get students to gather for our events. People show up, have a good time, bring cars and enjoy,” Panagiotopoulos said.
The club’s advisor, first-year English teacher Cherri Watkins, attended the show. Despite Watkins’ limited knowledge of cars, she enjoyed watching her students.
“Some students have built their own cars, and it is amazing to see how intellectual those skills can be, and how intelligent students are with their hobbies and interests,” Watkins said.
Panagiotopoulos understands how some may feel intimidated if they are bringing a car that is not as prestigious as other cars. However, he knows that any car lover can find their place at a show, regardless of the price they paid.
“You don’t have to have the nicest or most expensive car. We want people to come and just have a great time,” Panagiotopoulos said.
Natalie Reyes, a junior, brought her BMW 320I to the event and got to share her new detailing processes with peers.
“I’ve been working on the car and just painted my rims and window trims. Coming here, I can see what other people are doing to their cars and what they think of mine,” Reyes said.
Carlmont Car Club members plan on holding more shows in the future and urge interested students to participate in hopes of a bigger turnout.
“We want to continue growing our community and hosting these shows as often as every month,” Panagiotopoulos said.
