Long as I’ve been a member of SLTOA – just over 12 years now – we’ve celebrated (?) summer heat and humidity with a mid-July, backyard gathering at the home of one of our members. Ah, but in this time of pandemic, social distancing and face mask requirements, crowding a bunch of cars and members/guests into said back yard in Chesterfield was a non-starter.

The solution? As devised by SLTOA Event Chairman Creig H, a rolling SweatFest: meet on a Saturday at a park in Fenton off MO 141 and MO 30, head out for two hours of spirited driving (“social distancing at 60 mph,” as it were…although plenty of the route’s curves, including a number of hairpins, required social distancing at 25 mph…or less), then return to the park for a picnic lunch under a shelter with either food brought from home or ordered from StL BreadCo.

It was a smashing success: perfect weather, about 24 participants in 14 cars (mostly Triumphs) and one hell of an entertaining drive (thanks Creig!). Everyone who took part thoroughly enjoyed themselves and, in holding a combined picnic/meeting, we set a standard for the remainder of the year, at least into the fall when the temps start going south.

SLTOA’s August meeting is scheduled for Faust Park, see the web page for details.