South Carolina stretches from the Atlantic Ocean to the Blue Ridge Mountains, containing 31,113 square miles. Fortieth in geographic area among the fifty states, it ranks twenty-sixth in population. The Palmetto State's more than four million citizens value its rich history, a legacy that is a prime factor in making tourism one of the state's largest industries. One such tourist attraction, especially if you are a custom auto owner, is the annual Southeast Showdown hosted by AcrophobiA, one of the largest custom auto clubs in the United States.

This year was the first year that ESM attended this growing event dubbed (no pun intended) "South Carolina's Largest Car & Truck Show". The Anderson Fairgrounds played the role of canvass that hosted 400+ colorful and clean custom cruisers from domestic sport trucks to full blown import cars.

In addition to the show-n-shine event, the weekend also included a bikini show, burn out contest, and hydraulics contest. Many vendors were on hand such as Allgoods, Tint Plus, Under-Ground Scene, Hot Rides Magazine, Drop 'Em Wear?, Print House, Upstate Outdoor, Custom Tags & Designs, Custom Fiberglass hoods, Billet Mirrors, Drop Jaw Magazine, and yours truly... Elite Streets Magazine.

Awards consisted of six "best-of-show" trophies that also included cash payouts. They were: best mini-truck, best full-size truck, best 4x4, best low-rider, best import car, and best domestic car. 1,500+ spectators came through the gates over the weekend to eyeball some of the south's hottest rides and to mingle with like-minded friends. Next year, let's put out the word and bust the belt loops and pack the fairgrounds with spectators because this is truly a good show to attend!