The fifth annual Show Your Ride for Brandon is back this weekend, with an anticipated 1,000 to 1,300 entrants set to strut their rides at Calgary Stampede Park. Last year, the show and shine raised more than $20,000 – dispersed to a number of charitable endeavours in honour of the late Cochrane High student who was killed by a drunk driver on Dec. 6, 2012 at the age of 17. Through the pain, Brandon's mom, Kim, and sister, Kayla Thomas, with the help of friends, family and a long list of community sponsors have continued to host events in his honour. "I wish we were doing it with Brandon – not for him or because of him, but with him," said Kim. This year, funds raised will go toward the SAIT and Cochrane High mechanical scholarships in honour of Brandon – who was an aspiring mechanic and passionate car enthusiast who "loved driving, drifting, mudding and everything in between." Funds will also go toward the Show Your Ride Victims Fund, Discovery Wildlife Park and the Flames Rotary House. "It's bittersweet. I'm overwhelmed with the support for Brandon and our family and this cause ... but there's always somebody missing." The circumstances of Brandon's death led the family to heavily advocate the federal government for stricter penalties for those who cause harm or death to others as a result of drunk driving. Check out RIP Brandon Thomas on Facebook to learn about the court details following his death. "This keeps a part of Brandon alive in our minds and our hearts and keeps the message to not drink and drive alive," said Kim, adding that she and her team of volunteers who she credits for their hard work are very grateful to Calgary Stampede Park for providing the venue to host the large-scale event. Last year, the event took place at the University of Calgary and saw 759 entrants. The event takes places from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Registered entrants will not pay for parking on the grounds. Pre-pay for registration not accepted. The $20 registration must be paid on arrival and no pre-registration is required. Spectators do not pay to attend, but will have to pay for on-site parking should they choose to drive to the grounds. Donations will be gratefully received. With a bevy of engine-related family fun on site, the event will have music and food on the grill. Various competitions, a skylift hoisting you 167 feet in the air, a variety of car competitions, a kid's parade, raffle prizes, a 50/50 draw and more. Calgary Stampede Park is located at 1410 Olympic Way, S.E. and the event takes place in lots three and six. All types of rides are accepted - vintage, classic, ordinary, 4x4s, exotics, imports, lowered and lifted and more. Since its inception, Show Your Ride for Brandon has raised nearly $50,000 for the community. Check out the Facebook page or showyourrideforbrandon.com for more details.
