Enthusiasts from across the U.S. come to Fallbrook to celebrate the 'Godfather of the GTO'

Over 400 muscle car enthusiasts from across the United States gathered at the Fallbrook home of Jim Wangers, known as the “Godfather of the GTO,” on June 26 to celebrate his 85th birthday. The event featured an incomparable concours event with 85 of the nation’s most beautiful models of classic Pontiacs on display.

Wangers’ estate, comprised of 30 acres, more or less, was the perfect venue for the party with its multi-level lawns, large shade trees, a tumbling waterfall, large swimming pool and deck area and plenty of room for mingling.

“We set out to honor a great man who has dedicated himself to the promotion of all things Pontiac and with 400 people on the grounds,” said organizers. “Jim Wangers couldn’t have had a better day of celebration.”

Guests enjoyed a barbecue buffet lunch and listened to music of the 60s performed live by The Surf City Allstars. Three large birthday cakes were cut for dessert.

Wangers presented three awards at the special event. The first, for “Best Pontiac of the Show” went to Larry and Marsha Allen for their beautiful 1958 Parisiene convertible they brought out from Missouri. The second, “Best GTO,” was presented to its owner Heinrich Gerhardt, whose classic vehicle had also graced the cover of Car Craft magazine. The final award, “Best of Show” was presented to Kevin DeWitte for his spectacular 1961 Tri-Power, four-speed Ventura.

At the conclusion of the awards, the Surf City Allstars band launched into the song “GTO,” announcing it as the “National Anthem” of the day to honor Wangers’ birthday. Wangers enthusiastically performed as lead singer to the tune.

“The hills of Fallbrook were alive with the sound of music and the day could not have ended on a higher note,” said organizers.

Wangers, the well-known “ad man” for Pontiac and the master marketer behind the Pontiac GTO and several other Pontiac specialty cars, helped launch the muscle car of the 60s to it’s rightful niche in history. Wangers did not invent the GTO – that is credited to John DeLorean, Russ Gee and Bill Collins.

“But Wangers was certainly the man who created the mystique that surrounds America’s musclecar, the Pontiac GTO,” said organizers.

The Fallbrook resident said he enjoys traveling to Pontiac shows and maintaining his large network of friends across the nation and graciously thanked the guests for attending the event.

“I really appreciate the fact that you all came today; it means a lot to me and I hope you had a good time,” said Wangers.