Tigers United

Christopher Albers (Christopher.Albers(at)bubbs.biola.edu)
Sun, 28 Jun 1998 23:14:23 -0700


Well, I went to Tigers United on Saturday in the hopes of unloading some parts. It was a beautiful day in Big Bear and I was thankful I was there instead of down in the valley on one of the worst air quality days yet this year. I was impressed by the Le Mans Tiger I had missed at Smitty's May Diversion. Wow, what an automobile! There were also some wonderful Tigers there. I was especially intrigued with one Forest Green MkII with only 44k miles on it. Undoubtedly the cleanest car there. I must say, however, that I was rather dissappointed with the meager showing of Alpines. I think there were 3, maybe 4, with one "proper" Alpine. Of course I did not help matters as I was unable to complete my car for the show (and the expected completion continues to extend as the machine shop drags its feet). I was also dissappointed with the lack of retail goods for the Alpine. I recognize that retailers are in the business of making money but why can't we purchase the same types of accessories that Tiger owners can? I had forgotten a hat on that sunny day and the only Alpine hat (2 total) available was this awful nylon and mesh thing that stood up in front like a tiara. There were no shirts, no parking signs, no ashtrays, no jackets; hardly anything representing the BEST Rootes sportscar, the Alpine. What a sham! Ok, I've vented my spleen. Sorry. Overall it was a great event. Finally got to meet Rick of Sunbeam Specialties, with whom I have done thousands of $'s worth of business for years only knowing his voice. A very nice fellow and he had some nifty things not in the catalog that I needed. Next year I plan on being there with my Alpine (& to take home a trophy). So come on you people, let's give our cars the proper exposure they deserve and show those Tiger owners which car is the REAL Sunbeam.

Christopher