Now I definitely know that Nads is trying to take me out of the picture. Sending the small Chinese dude who talks massive amounts of smack to Texas by himself wasn't exactly safe. But that was cool with me. I can look at the bright side of almost anything. Like the fact that I'd never been to Texas before and the trip would be an experience in itself. Then there would be the huge, delicious steaks cooked as rare as possible. And of course, the Import Revolution models were going to be there. Actually, let me rephrase that last remark. Ms. Sharon Sotto, the sexiest girl on the planet, was going to be there. With all that said, I guess Nads didn't really have to twist my arm.
The Houston Astrodome was filled to capacity with cars, spectators, vendors, and girls galore. I was amazed that the turnout was so big because the World Import Challenge was happening the same weekend. (Look for coverage on the WIC elsewhere in this issue.) My Texas homies from Pro Tech Performance called me from the line outside saying it was a two-hour wait to get in. Now that's just plain crazy.
Jspek, along with several crews, was out and about representing. With all the Advans and Mugen rims in the crew, I thought I was back in Cali. A white DA Integra owned by Vanson Nguyen was so clean it might make Jonny regret selling his own DA. Each section of the show had a different form of entertainment. One had a DJ, another one had a motorcycle show, and there were even some B-Boys standing in their B-Boy stances. Supras, Civics, Eclipses, and WRXs-take your pick and you would have found it there. Vendors were also plentiful: MTX, Ford, American Products Company, IPN Motorsports, and Valvoline, to name a few.
I tried to sneak off to find some rest, but then I realized it just wasn't going to happen. There were a bunch of people lined up as if they were waiting to vote for the next President of the United States. Ah, the Model Expo. How could I have forgotten my plan to meet Sharon Sotto, introduce myself, and blurt out something totally stupid?
Booth by booth I walked around anxiously looking for her. My heart sank when I saw the Sharon Sotto sign, but no Sharon Sotto. How could this be? So I waited until she finally showed up with a swarm of fans following her. I handed her my business card, and with a squeak in my voice I said, "Hi, I'm from Super Street magazine. Can I get a couple of pictures of you?" Then I ran off giggling like a little schoolboy who just left a Valentine card for his crush.
My mission was somewhat accomplished. She now knows Ricky Chu actually exists. At least on a 2x311/42-inch business card I do. Next step, marriage proposal. Wait, no, that's too crazy. Who you calling crazy, punk?