CARLISLE, PA (April 5, 2012) - It's becoming a trend at the Carlisle Chrysler Nationals, July 6-8 at the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds, to not only host some of the hottest cars the Mopar brand has to offer, but to also welcome the iconic figures most associated with the brand. 2012 will be no different as the event rolls out the red carpet for all things Mopar, Richard Petty, Catherine Bach (Daisy Duke) and Ben Jones (Cooter). Along with the stars and cars, the Carlisle Chrysler Nationals will once again be one of three national locations for Mopar "Top Eliminator" program, allowing one lucky car owner the chance to have his or her car showcased in the Mopar booth, free of charge, as part of the annual SEMA show in Las Vegas.
Fresh off of his 75th birthday and a Saturday night at Daytona International Speedway, NASCAR legend Richard Petty will spend his Sunday with throngs of fans at Carlisle. Petty famously drove the #43 STP Dodge for many years on the then Winston Cup circuit, including a handful of seasons driving the popular Superbird model in the 1970s. During his career, Petty amassed 200 wins.
With more than 2,500 cars and a crowd of nearly 50,000 on site, the weekend is guaranteed to provide fun for the entire family, no matter their age or gender. The weekend starts on Friday and will be highlighted by the appearance of Bach and Jones, both famously known for their roles in the Dukes of Hazzard. They will be the fifth and sixth former Dukes stars to appear at Carlisle, joining the likes of James Best (Sheriff Roscoe P. Coltrane), John Schneider (Bo Duke), Byron Cherry (Coy Duke) and Christopher Mayer (Vance Duke). Bach and Jones will appear together throughout the weekend along with the General Lee.
Though the stars are an attractive draw, enthusiasts will also be on site for the cars, the history and camaraderie of the Mopar brand. Various industry guests will come to Carlisle as well as a myriad of special displays, one of which ties in well with Mr. Petty's appearance - a vintage NASCAR display. In addition, Barn Finds will return as will the 1972 Retro Dealership and the ever-popular seminar tent. Family fun will also be in the foreground with the Kids at Carlisle attraction along with the Women's Oasis tent, each providing an automotive alternative for families at Carlisle.
The Mopar "Top Eliminator" returns to Carlisle as it has every year since the program's inception. Top Eliminator recognizes diehard and loyal Mopar owners who are true ambassadors of the brand and who exhibit their passion and skills in modifying or preserving a piece of Mopar muscle car heritage. Mopar factory representatives will scour the grounds to evaluate all qualified automobiles and then they'll announce the winner on Sunday, July 8. The winning car will be rewarded with an all expense paid trip to Las Vegas and the SEMA show. Showfield registration is available online at www.CarlisleEvents.com or by calling 717-243-7855.
Along with giveaways and industry guests, there will be a burnout competition, a beauty contest and so much more. The Carlisle Chrysler Nationals offers a true Mopar-lover's paradise. With vehicles from all eras of the Chrysler brand - classics, muscle cars, high-performance new models and more - you won't want to miss the enormous showfield organized by year, make and model as well as fantastic indoor displays. In addition, there are a slew of kids' activities, industry guests, a huge swap meet and car corral, HEMI® engine giveaway as well as NHRA drag racing. Whether you prefer muscle cars, classics, modern muscle or trucks – this show has it all!
