By Bill Thorpe

AMC theaters across the country showed the 50-year-old movie “Bullitt,” starring Steve McQueen, during the first weekend of October as a matinee attraction.

The film depicts what is considered the ultimate car chase ever filmed in Hollywood. McQueen does most of the stunts as he chases bad guys through the streets of San Francisco in his 1968 GT Mustang. A cult following as the Bullitt Heads soon emerged.

They even started The International Mustang Bullitt Owners Club complete with internet forum access. Ford for its part is extremely pleased with the free publicity and has capitalized with 30th-, 40th- and 50th-year special editions of the Highland Green Bullitt Mustang.

The recent gathering of these car enthusiasts at an AMC parking lot were surprised to have a member from Cincinnati show up with a brand-new 50th-year edition of the Bullitt. Until next time, happy cruisin’!

Despite being postponed two weeks because of inclement weather, the Gateway Cruiser Car Show at Southern Plaza Sept. 22 was an overwhelming success. The skies were clear, the weather was cooler, and more than 70 cars were entered. 

Kroger once again donated the food for the free breakfasts for participants and spectators, and the folks from Bert and Den’s Grille cooked and served. Jennifer, who owns the restaurant, reported that they served more than 250 eggs, 17 pounds of bacon, 5 1/2 gallons of sausage gravy and a whole bunch of biscuits. The Best of Show was presented to Bill Weber for his 1957 Chevy Bel Air Convertible.

The entry fees amount to more than $1,100, which was presented to Robin Heldman, president of the Gateway Community Alliance.

“The show gets better and bigger every year,” said Chris Truran, regional supervisor of Tri-Land Properties, which manages the shopping center. “We’re really looking forward to next year as we build this event in conjunction with Garfield Park and the University of Indianapolis and our efforts to highlight the Southside.”

Judged award winners:
• Tom Phillips, 1973 Chevy Camaro.
• Steve Moody, 1964 Chevy Nova.
• John Sauer, 1966 Chevelle.
• Bob Jenkins, 1955 Chevy Bel Air.
• Larry Stevenson, 1939 Ford Tudor Deluxe sedan.
• Mark Stansbury, 1965 Chevy El Camino.
• Kyle Davis, 2003 Mercury Marauder.
• Dwane Martin, 1958 Chevy Impala.
• Stan Allen, 1990 Chevy K5 Blazer.
• Les Sebring, 1931 Ford Model A Speedster