For Kingsport resident Sam Manis, his passion for Volkswagens helps him look past their inevitable and unmistakable quirks and to see the enjoyment that comes from owning one...or six in his case. At least three of those will be on display during the April 12-13 Thunder Valley Volks Rally at Bristol Dragway.
Manis, who graduated from Dobyns-Bennett in 2003, was bitten by the Volkswagen bug when he was 15. And he has found one profitable way to stay involved with the little cars. For the past four years, Manis and his father have owned a small shop in East Carters Valley, Tenn., Valley Auto Volkswagen Service and Repair.
"I started out as just an all around car nut," explained Manis. "I had always liked VWs, but it wasn't until I bought my first that I really began to dig into them. My father and I have had our shop for a little over four years now, and we hope we continue to grow! There isn't too much you can throw at us that we won't tackle. We have done cars from all around the Southeast."
Because of their age, many of the metal panels on older Volkswagens require attention and Manis has developed great skill in massaging those parts. However, understanding the importance of a college education, Manis enrolled in the welding program at Northeast State.
"I've been working metal and welding for a while now," he says, "but I've been learning quite a few things by going to class for it. These cars aren't getting any newer and we haven't seen one yet that didn't need repair panels installed or fabricated. I also build suspension parts for these cars and I hope to expand that into bigger things."
Manis visits many Volkswagen shows and swap meets throughout the Southeast and says nothing can prevent him from making the trip or enjoying the ride in a classic VW.
On a trip from Asheville to Chattanooga, his VW bus was faced with an evening thunderstorm that caused the roof to begin leaking. With the power of a mini-Niagara filling up the floorboard, Manis and his friends drove on toward Chattanooga. It took 10 wet hours to reach their destination, but Manis wouldn't change it for anything.
"There really isn't anything about VWs that I don't like," he explains. "There isn't a day that passes that I don't hear a story from someone about the one they used to have, or the one their friend or relative had. Driving through town almost everyone that spots you gets a smile on their face and waves or throws up a peace sign. I've met some great people through these cars and I've made a lot of memories!"
For his next road trip, Manis only will have to drive up Interstate 81 a few short miles. He and his Volkswagen-loving friends are fired up about the inaugural Thunder Valley Volks Rally.
"I'm glad VWs are finally coming back to Bristol," he exclaims. "Most of the shows are a few hours away, so to bring one back to this area is great. There is quite a VW following around here and this show should definitely bring out some new faces. The local group, the Good Ole Volks, is really excited about the show!"
"I plan to bring at least three of my own cars and do a little vending, too." "I'm sure that the word will spread enough that the turnout will be great and (the event) continues for years to come. It also would be nice to find a few parts for the '56 I'm putting together!"
Those who share Manis' affliction should plan to make a stop at the Thunder Valley Volks Rally at Bristol Dragway. If they are lucky, spectators may be able to see one of the VWs Manis calls his own.
Gates open at 9 a.m. on Saturday, with autocross starting at 10 a.m. Drag racing qualifications begin at noon, and a gambler's race is slated for 3:30 p.m.
Gates open at 8 a.m. Sunday. Final qualifications and car show judging begin at 11 a.m. Eliminations kick off at 1 p.m. The car show cruise takes place at 2:15 p.m. and car show awards will be announced at 4 p.m.
Tickets are $15 each day, with a $25 weekend pass also available. Children 10 and under are free.
For more information, please call (423) 764-DRAG.