SoCal Open MODEL CAR Contest

The End of an Era

We have just completed the eighth edition of the SoCal Open presented by Laski Scale Specialties, and the 20th running of the event overall. It was a fantastic day, with just over 400 model cars on display. 

Of those, 345 were official contest entries, along with more than 70 additional models featured in the Southern California Bugs display. In total, 53 builders competed, with several more bringing VW Bugs solely for display.

The energy and excitement of the show made what comes next especially difficult to share.

We have been informed by Rancho San Antonio Boys Home that we will no longer have access to the gymnasium during our traditional show weekend. This decision is not a reflection of the SoCal Open, its organizers, or the model car community. Rather, it stems from changes in the Boys Home’s operating model and new security restrictions tied to federal grant requirements, which now prevent outside groups from using the facility.

As a result, the SoCal Open, as we know it today, has come to a close.

What the future holds remains uncertain. We may explore the possibility of bringing the event back at a new venue, but no decisions have been made at this time.

Regardless of what comes next, I want to sincerely thank all of our sponsors, builders, and attendees who have supported the SoCal Open over the years. Your passion and dedication are what made this event so special.

Thank you all!

Art and Lisa Laski

See the results from this year’s show below: