LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) – Classic car enthusiasts flocked to the Kentucky Horse Park Saturday morning to show off their rides and meet some state troopers. It was the Kentucky State Police’s second annual Vintage, Custom and Cruiser Car Show. Proceeds benefit KSP’s Kentucky Trooper Outreach Program.
“This is a somewhat newer 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that we created to support a lot of community involvement and outreach programs and events. Just things that we participate in throughout the state of Kentucky throughout the year that primarily benefit children, but also families,” said KSP Sergeant Matt Sudduth.
Sergeant Sudduth says her work also includes hosting community events or initiatives such as the Trooper Teddy Project or her Safety Town Exhibit at the Kentucky State Fair.
“Yes, we have a job to do, but we are also part of the Commonwealth and we are not only here to serve, but we are a part of it. We are also part of the state of Kentucky,” said Sergeant Sudduth.
Dozens of people brought their cars to the show, each with a different story.
“It’s a 1978 pace car, which was the first year the Corvette was ever used for a pace car,” said Herman Feldman. “This is a 1967 Oldsmobile 442. That was my dating car in high school,” said Ronnie Ray.
For retired KSP soldier Mark Cool, the car of his choice is a reminder of his time in uniform.
“I worked at the Richmond post and drove one of the KSP Mustangs as part of my duties as a state trooper, so those old cars had a place in my heart,” Cool said.
Cool says KSP bought 10 of the Mustangs in 1985. Unlike a typical patrol car, they were used only for speed enforcement. Since there are so few of them, he had to have one when they came up for auction. He has since completely restored it.
“It has all the equipment it would have had on the day it was commissioned: radar, VASCAR, radios, blue lights and sirens,” Cool said.
To support the Kentucky Trooper Outreach Program, click here.
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