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Small Car, Huge Win: 1955 VW Karmann Ghia “Karma” Wins the 2026 Al Slonaker Memorial Award
Under the bright lights of the 2026 Grand National Roadster Show in Pomona, surrounded by some of the finest hot rods and customs ever assembled, one car quietly—and decisively—rose to the top. Dennis Troggio’s 1955 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia, nicknamed “Karma” and built by Buddy Hale and the team at Type One Restorations, claimed the prestigious Al Slonaker Memorial Award, standing tallest among 12 exceptional contenders.

FASTER PASTOR
Keith Shuley is a genuine hot rodder and a bona fide car nut. In that respect, he’s no different from any of you reading this article, but what makes him a little different is how he spends his days. Shuley is a Catholic priest and a Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy, serving as the Command Chaplain aboard the amphibious assault carrier U.S.S. Peleliu, the LHA-5. He spends his days filling the spiritual needs of those sailors, aviators and Marines who help keep our country free. But during his personal time, he fills his own need for speed. What a concept!

AT LONG LAST
It is very apparent that when Frank Mauro wants something, he has the patience to wait for it. Take this ‘38 Chevy pickup, for example. Mauro had seen it in a storage yard for many years, but couldn’t convince the owner to sell it to him. It seems that the previous owner had a handle on patience himself, as the truck had actually been sitting for 25 years.
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From Vegas with Horsepower
Recap of the Winners at Holley LS Fest West
Author
Jamie Dent
Photography by Scott Killeen
Holley LS Fest West in Las Vegas, Diverse Automotive Events

Las Vegas, Nevada, baby! Picture this: the Holley LS Fest West roaring into town like a beast on four wheels, revving up the asphalt at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway from April 26-28, 2024. This shindig ain’t your average car meet; nah, it’s a full-throttle celebration of all things LS engine from GM. You got your gearheads from every corner gathering round, ready to rip it up in Autocross, Drifting, Drag Racing, Off-Road showdowns, and then some. But it’s not just about the racing; it’s about the vibe, man. Folks bonding over their love for LS-powered rides, swapping stories, and soaking in that sweet, sweet automotive culture.
Now, let’s rewind the tape a bit. The roots of this bash stretch back over a decade to Bowling Green, Kentucky, Holley’s stomping ground. Started off as a small gig for LS muscle cars, and now? It’s a global phenomenon, baby. LS Fest West popped its hood in Sin City back in 2017, bringing the party out west. And year after year, it’s grown into this monster of an event, drawing in folks from all walks of life to witness the LS engine flex its muscles in drag races, off-road tracks, and sideways drift battles.
Fast-forward to 2024, and the Las Vegas Motor Speedway is buzzing like a hive of horsepower. Car show? You betcha. Classic rides, modern beasts, all strutting their stuff, showing off what an LS engine can do. But the real showstopper? The Grand Champion showdown, where drivers throw down in multiple events to snag that top spot. And hey, it’s not just about the races; you got vendors peddling the latest LS tech and aftermarket goodies, turning this fest into a gearhead’s paradise.
So, in a nutshell, the Holley LS Fest West ain’t just about burning rubber and throwing sparks; it’s a full-blown celebration of LS power. It’s where petrolheads come to swap stories, push their rides to the limit, and soak in that sweet, sweet camaraderie that comes with being part of the LS family.
Couldn’t make it to the event? No worries! The Auto Builder has got you covered. Join us as we recap the big winners of Holley’s LS Fest West 2024.
Holley LS Fest West Grand Champions
Holley’s LS Fest West isn’t just another competition; it’s where automotive legends are made. The Grand Champion title isn’t handed out lightly — it’s earned through a grueling series of challenges that test both machine and driver. From the adrenaline-fueled drag races where street tires grip against high horsepower, to the precision-demanding road courses and the balance-testing skid pads, every aspect of automotive performance is put to the test. It’s not just about power; it’s about finesse, control, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Winners in each class — Late Model, Vintage, and Truck — may take home cash prizes and coveted jackets, but the true reward lies in the respect earned as the ultimate master of automotive prowess at LS Fest West.
Dyno Challenge Winner
3S Challenge & Autocross Winner
Grand Champion Drag Race Winner
Drift Challenge Winner
Car Show Winner
ARTICLE SOURCES
Holley LS Fest West
Las Vegas Motor Speedway

