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For-ward Thinking
Those who know Ottawa, Kansas Roger Ward are almost certainly aware of his dry wit, his candid demeanor and his unique ability to create understated cars, one after the other. His talent in applying the most understated details to relatively unsung vehicles provides a lesson for us all that the best way to make a strong statement is to say as little as possible and do it your own way.
While his daily duties revolved around reworked body panels and refining those efforts with a paint gun, his lifelong hobby has focused those skills on a series of cars that exudes the same laid-back character which can be enjoyed in this extremely subtle, yet equally eye-?catching, 64 short-wheelbase Chevy pickup. As with so many trucks of this era, previous owners didn’t worry too much about retaining its pristine originality. Dented and rusty, this truck had been through the proverbial ringer, which made this conversion that much more difficult to achieve. Then again, Ward’s particular talents have made a great deal out of lesser vehicles, so this would simply be another test of his talents and another example of the skills he wields.

A Quick 95hp
So, you are the proud owner of a brand new Dodge SRT-4 and you love the sound of boost. Better yet, you love how quick your little four-door is. The only problem is … you want it to be faster. The need for speed is killing you and you will do anything and everything to get your adrenaline flowing. You have seen Mike Crawford and Shaun Carlson go down the track in their very fast SRTs and now you want the same thing.

STEP IT UP
The legacy of the Ford Bronco is stronger than ever, thanks to the versatility and customization options of the sixth-generation Ford Bronco. This platform is built for off-road performance and on-road comfort and there are a multitude of custom factory packages that build upon that platform. Because of the factory design and immense aftermarket support, the options are limitless for these future icons of off-roading.
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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










