MODESTO — Known as the home of American Graffiti, the city of Modesto is also known for its classic cars. Now, a truck in Modesto has been named the most beautiful truck in the world.
Among the several cars and trucks from across generations, one stood out.
Greg Tidwell owns a 1940 Ford. This is a truck that just won the title of the most beautiful truck in the world at the Grand National Truck Show.
“That’s…I don’t even know how to put it,” Tidwell said. “It was an awe-inspiring, breathtaking match. I was in complete shock that we won.”
Tidwell’s adventure began when he took his project vehicle to South City Rod and Custom.
“This project probably took close to two to three years in total because it required quite a few modifications,” said Bill Ganard, who started the store in 2008.
“We wanted the truck to have a late ’50s, early ’60s feel,” Tidwell said. “It’s like the American Graffiti era, I was born and raised in Modesto.”
Tidwell wanted it to be bold and flashy, yet delicate and elegant. The color is inspired by Christmas ornaments.
“So I picked up the ornament and [the] The next few days I drove to Bill’s store and brought it in and he looked at me and said, “Are you kidding?” he said.
Tidwell rarely went to truck shows. Shortly before, his father had a stroke.
“I wasn’t going to go to the show. You know, I couldn’t do that,” Tidwell said. “I can’t leave my father. I can’t go.”
Tidwell said her father said, “Go. What are you going to do, sit down and look at me? Go.”
“When I got on stage and won, it made a huge difference,” Tidwell said. She added: “My father was born in 1940. His favorite color is green. That brought everything together.” [I] That night, I took the trophy home, walked into the hospital and said, “Dad, we won.” ”
Tidwell’s father is currently recovering. As for the truck, it has been touring the country at various shows.