Truck show returns to Ladd to benefit Relay for Life

LADD - The 17th Convoy Against Cancer BIG Truck Show is back in business.

After its cancellation last year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the show is set for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 24, in downtown Ladd.

The event offers vehicle owners and enthusiasts something different while benefiting the American Cancer Society Relay For Life.

With the help of the village of Ladd, Route 89 will be rerouted for a few hours so the vehicles can be displayed on Main Street. There will be plenty of room to line the street with all makes and models of new and restored BIG trucks, including truck cranes, firetrucks, wreckers and pickups, from across north central Illinois.

Farm tractors – new and antique – are welcome this year, said Phil Hocking, the show’s organizer.

“We have a couple local farmers with fine collections of antique Farmall International tractors, and the people really enjoyed them,” Hocking said. “There will be all makes and models of antique and new big trucks, as well as pickup trucks, too.”

All entrants will receive a dash plaque donated by Graphic Electronics of Spring Valley. The entry registration fee is a donation to the American Cancer Society.

In addition to chrome and stacks, there will be entertainment for the whole family, with music by DJ Gary Swanson, door prizes, a 50/50 drawing, food and event T-shirts for sale. Local businesses have donated door prizes ranging from toys to motor oil. Admission to the show is free.

Hocking said he is grateful to many local businesses and individuals who have who have supported the Convoy Against Cancer BIG Truck Show in the past 16 years.

“We’ve gotten to know a lot of people who’ve come out every year with their trucks and entries,” he said. “So many are here in memory [of]or in honor of a loved one affected by cancer. In a way, it’s like a homecoming every year. We laugh and cry and support each other. Everyone is welcome to come out and spend some time, check out the great vehicles and help this cause.”

For entry and information call 815-488-8245, 815-894-2092, or email hocking4@comcast.net. All proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society Relay For Life.

Hocking estimates about $70,000 has been raised since the first show in 2003. He’s hoping that the weather will cooperate to help bring out young and old to this year’s truck show.

“Every dollar raised at the show will bring us a little closer to a cure for cancer,” he said.

The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering and preventing cancer through research, education, advocacy and service. For the most up-to-date cancer-related information and to join the fight against cancer, call 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.