Vintage Car Collectors Rally In Galena for National Convention

Are you a collector of things? For me, it's interesting to learn about the things people collect. It's especially intriguing to discover what collectibles people build a community around.

In the United States, the automobile has always been popular with collectors. The world of car enthusiasts is vast, with countless subcultures ranging from lowriders to hot rods to makes and models.

This week one such group has descended upon Galena for its annual convention. VTR2022 celebrates the Vintage Triumph sports car. Go to VTR2022.org for more information.

During the late 1890s, the Triumph company manufactured bicycles, followed by motorcycles. Then, after several financial troubles and owners, the company started making small yet affordable sports cars that have attracted an enthusiastic following today.

Hosted by the Illinois Sports Owners Association, the four-day gathering will bring over 200 Triumph gearheads from around North America to Galena and the Tri-States.

The Vintage Triumph Register (VTR) is a tight-knit North American Triumph car club of over 2,800 Triumph owners and enthusiasts supporting and showcasing all models of Triumphs.

The car conventioneers will compete in an autocross challenge and participate in several events. Such as driving a road rally on select back roads and learning about Triumphs in expert-led technical sessions.

Over the next few days, you may see an unusual number of Triumphs on Tri-State roadways. However, the best opportunity to see these classic sports cars up close and talk with their proud owners is at the People's Choice Car Show this Thursday, September 1, from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm at the Galena Depot Lot.

The club met in Oklahoma last year and in places like Texas and northern Wisconsin in years past. So, if you're a Triumph fan or merely a classic car enthusiast, don't miss your chance to view and learn more about these mint-conditioned beauties!