What is the Bandit Run?

by Dave Ashton

For the uninitiated, The Bandit Run may sound like a scene from a long-lost Spaghetti Western. It is, of course, a yearly event started by Dave Hall of Restore a Muscle Car and David Hershey in 2007 to honour the 30th anniversary of the iconic movie Smokey and the Bandit.

Initially, the event aimed to persuade all those classic muscle cars(mostly Trans Am’s) around the US to meet up and be out on the open roads. A different route is planned each year, with the help from Restore a Muscle Car.

But Why?

The first Smokey and the Bandit movie has become a symbol of a more carefree time, the freedom of the open road, and most importantly, a hysterical, light-hearted take on the chase movie genre.
There were three movies in total. But, it’s the first movie that cemented the legend. Simply, watch the first movie to find out why. Not the other two, as they were…well, not as good.

Along with Burt Reynolds, the other star of the show was the 1977 Pontiac Trans Am. A special edition model in Black and gold with a loud and proud ‘Screaming Chicken’ stamped on the hood.

By today’s standards, the 6.6L V8 engine of the Pontiac producing 180-200HP isn’t that efficient, but that’s missing the point. In its day, the power was plenty enough, and fuel was cheap.

The Late 1970s Trans Am is a work of art. Just compare the design to the average everyday car of today or slightly sporty vehicle of the masses. The Trans Am was and is a visual statement.
Today, the Trans Am is a symbol of that sense of freedom, a calling to a long, open road, without a care in the world.
Thus, that is why the Bandit Run is a worthwhile event, to join like-minded folks experiencing the straightforward simplicity of a road trip and to obviously show off a bunch of very cool cars.

Next Year

This year’s events took place between 6.8.25-6.12.25, which gives plenty of time to prepare for the 2026 event.
For more information, there is a Facebook group dedicated to the event here – https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebanditrunpublic
OR
Apple and Android apps here –
Apple https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bandit-run/id982961486

Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.agilx.banditrun&hl=en_US&gl=US&pli=1

 

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