There’s nothing quite like the rumble of a Tri-Five rolling through Beech Bend Raceway Park. If you know, you know—and if you don’t, well, you’re missing out on the biggest and best gathering of 1955, ’56, and ’57 Chevys in the country: the Tri-Five Nationals.
Every August, thousands of us descend on Bowling Green, Kentucky, not just to show off the work we’ve poured into our cars, but to connect with people who get it. Folks who can spot the difference between a ’55 and a ’56 from across the track. People who understand why a hard-to-find dome light or correctly molded trim matters. People like me.
From Hobbyist to Manufacturer
Before Retro-Gear was a company, it was just me in the garage, working on my own Tri-Five and hunting down parts that were impossible to find or no longer in production. When I couldn’t find what I needed, I started making it myself—first with hand tools, then with precision mold making, CNC, and injection molding. That eventually grew into Retro-Gear: a small but mighty parts business focused on recreating the quality and style of original Tri-Five components, built by someone who actually drives and shows these cars.
Why I Show Up Every Year
The Tri-Five Nationals isn’t just a car show—it’s a celebration. A swap meet, a drag race, a homecoming. I go to see the builds, hunt for parts, and shake hands with folks I’ve only met through forums or phone calls. But more than anything, I go to be part of a community that shares the same passion and attention to detail that got Retro-Gear off the ground.
Whether it’s talking shop at the vendor booths, catching up with customers who now feel like friends, or just walking the rows of Chevys with a funnel cake in hand, it’s an experience I look forward to all year.
This year, you’ll find me in the vendor area with some of the latest Retro-Gear parts—including new trim pieces, specialty tools, and a few surprises we’ve been working on. I’d love to meet you in person, hear your build stories, and see how you’ve kept your Tri-Five alive.
What You Need to Know for 2025
If it’s your first time attending, here’s a quick checklist:
- Pre-register online to skip the lines and secure your entry for the drag races, car show, and giveaways.
- Book early. Hotels and RV spots near Beech Bend fill up fast.
- Check the schedule. Between racing, judging, and social events, there’s always something going on.
- Visit the swap meet. You never know what rare part or piece of nostalgia you’ll find.
- Stop by the Retro-Gear booth. I’ll be there Thursday through Saturday to talk parts, answer questions, and show you what we’ve been building.
Whether you’re chasing trophies, rare finds, or just a good conversation with fellow Tri-Five lovers, this event is the place to be.
See You in Bowling Green
Mark your calendar. Pack your cooler. Shine up your chrome.
The 2025 Tri-Five Nationals are almost here—and Retro-Gear will be right in the middle of it.
By Terry Louthan, Founder of Retro-Gear