Datsun Matsuri 2013!

[DatsunDave]

Ross sounds like someone from Ontario? Who knew?

...and for the 320, that is the plan.

[DatsunDave]

In case you missed it: http://www.myautoproject.com/datsun-matsuri-2013/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[Datsun.David]

I am in. Bringing the family too! Trying to convince the Mrs. to drive a Datsun out too...

[DatsunDave]

I am in. Bringing the family too! Trying to convince the Mrs. to drive a Datsun out too...

That is fantastic. I am sure Ingrid would love rolling through the gears as she rolls through the mountains. Maybe I can convince Caroline to drive the 260Z (despite its massive project status).

[Datsun.David]

Umm... Ya. Good luck with that. My only real shot is to convince her to drive the 350z... And even that probably qualifies as long... Might have a buddy come with a BEAUTIFUL Austin Healey 3000 though... I already told him he can't park with us, but near us.

[DatsunDave]

For those wanting a lead on rooms...

Recreation Inn
Nothing special but clean and the absolute best parking and social layout for owners of little cars that don't lock up so well.
$99 special rate for show participants.

Kelowna on the long weekend is pricey so you aren't likely to find a better combination of parking / social layout (those who stayed there last year can chime in to explain more) and price.

When phoning to make a reservation, please quote either Group #413 or ask for the Datsun Collectors group.

(tf) 1-800-663-8603 (p) 250-860-3982 (f) 250-860-1095

ACT FAST! Rooms are filling up quickly.

[Datsun 440]

Just completed my registration.Just wish Kelowna was closer its a 10 Hour drive.
Arnold

[DatsunDave]

...same for me. I know it is far but think of it as a challenge to all the people who are closer.

We Albertans are a hearty bunch. What say you Washington and BC people?

[DatsunDave]

Update Time:

Register by May 1st: $25

Register after May 1st: $50

Anyone else in?

Here are pictures from the 2012 event here:http://www.myautoproject.com/datsun-matsuri-2012-2/

[DatsunDave]

Well folks, we're 18 days away from the event and I am disappointed to report that registration is drastically behind what it was last year at this time.

I'm stumped.

Despite doing the same promo as 2012 and running what was a solid inaugural event to build a positive reputation for the show, registration currently sits at just 18.

I know there may be people who have been thinking about registering but haven't yet for whatever reason but I must now make a decision as to whether or not the event will proceed.

There are a number of logistical related decisions that cannot be delayed any longer and with the registration as it is presently, I can't expect the sponsors to keep any commitment to the event as they based their decision on being involved on registration being at least as high as it was in 2012.

Additionally, I do not have enough t-shirt orders to break even on the printing and I don't have enough registration to cover some of the core / non-variable costs.

So, while I am very disappointed to have to do this, the event is cancelled for 2013.

I am truly sorry.

Refunds for all those who have registered will be processed in the next 48 hours (or sooner).

[JMartin]

Dave; If my registration amount will help cover the costs that you have already put forth, please keep my funds. It is a great idea, and I am dissapointed that we didn't get the registration numbers.

[DatsunDave]

Thanks Jim for the offer Jim. I've got it covered.

[Linda]

Despite last year when it was a new event, there may be a few reasons for the lower registration:
1 Close to Solvang so some event fatigue
2Cost, in this economy, even if there is alot that you get for it
3 Weather. If it is difficult to determin what it will be this far out, folks may not want to chance it.
4Hotel availability. Might be too expensive or unavailable.

Maybe you can scale it down. Run it in a month or so, maybe a nice BBq with some kind of way to camp or stay over. I notice the Ratsun crowd does that stuff, even meeting in Yosemite. Or how about a 2 day rally type event, more driving with a stay at a inexpensive motel for the group. Those are very popular. Just a thought. I know you put in a lot of work too, sorry.

Linda

[Datsun.David]

Dave! So sorry to hear. We are still likely going to head out that way if you want to put the band back together for a road trip at least... Need to confirm with the Missus...

As for Linda's comments...
1) Only 1 Canadian went to Solvang that I know of... And there were only about 5 Americans (less?) last year at the Matsuri.
2) Cost? Everybody does something for the May long weekend up here...
3) Weather? Maybe. Sketchy perhaps, but generally gorgeous in the Okanagan Valley that time of year...
4) Availability of accommodations - There are probably more hotel/motel/campgrounds/b&b's per capita in Kelowna then almost anywhere in Canada.

Practically, I would chalk it up to a late start to the Spring and Summer season here which made it hard for people to think ahead.

Last years show was nothing less than awesome and a great accomplishment on your part. I was happy to be a part of it!

The other thing we could do, is just pull an Alberta Weekend together... Our place on the lake 1 hr south of Calgary is open for all roadster and Datsun owners on a date to be determined... Camping on site, tonnes of parking, and a big BBQ.

[Linda]

Sure seems a shame to miss a nice weekend and the 18 people want to go. Maybe just meet there with no sponsers no awards no tshirts and hang out. Awards and tshirts could be done after and sent on a per order basis, if anyone wants that. Based on low or no up front costs you could lower the reg fee and get more folks too.
The Alberta weekend sounds cool too!

Linda