They say one of the only constant things in life is change, and if you want to grow, sometimes you have to flow. Hot rodding has been a progression of change since its earliest pioneers discovered that their flivver went even faster once the fenders were removed. Goodguys events are no exception and are subject to changes as well.

The decision to change the Indy event to a new venue, namely the legendary Indianapolis Motor Speedway, was a huge change for some. While the grumblings about missing the dwindling racing action were noted, the overwhelming majority of the responding masses expressed enthusiasm for this change, and the excitement for the new Wix Speedway Nationals brought hot rodders to the Brickyard from far and wide. The inaugural event was a huge success.

One thing that did not change was the Poker Run on Thursday. Though the stops were different, the happy group of participants wound their way through an impressive tour of local stops before landing at Ray Skillman’s museum for the official Kick-Off Party. If you are a fan of old or classic cars, Rays’ shop is a candy store.

Friday’s opening gates parted with a stream of incoming cars that did not stop until Sunday, filling the infield and packing the Pagoda Plaza area with acres of vintage tin. The Rad Rides by Troy crew handled the Builder’s Choice picks while magazines and Goodguys staff made picks from both the general parking lots and the special areas.

Vendors were also pleased to be located both inside or out, depending on their preference, and the Swap Meet & Car Corral, though a different shape than previous years, covered more space on Saturday.

The Goodguys AutoCross was a haze of tire smoke as the long, skinny course containing long straights and a gnarly double switchback chicane put cars and drivers to the test.

Of course one of the most anticipated highlights of the weekend was the Track Cruise, giving participants a chance to pilot their own cars around the hallowed banks and straights of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. While this opportunity has been present off-site for years, the ability to make a lap and return to the infield was a special one.

Then, just when you think the weekend can’t get any better, guess who shows up? Richard Petty! The King stopped by on Saturday to sign autographs and meet with fans at the Wix booth and reaffirmed his reputation for being one of the nicest people you could ever meet.