South Shore Showdown: A Movement Fueled by Passion

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Owner: Ryan Lewis
Instagram: @southshoreshowdown

Web: https://southshoreshowdown.com/

Photographer/Author: Donnie Rochin

Instagram: @r0cean11

Facebook: r0cean11 Photography

Website: r0cean11.com

“Never stop dreaming. This started as an idea—now we’re two years in, and just getting started.”
— Ryan Lewis, Founder

What started as a lighthearted joke quickly turned into one of Northern California’s most exciting grassroots automotive events. South Shore Showdown, founded by Ryan Lewis in 2024, is more than just a car meet—it’s a movement built on passion, perseverance, and the power of community. What was once a playful moment became a fully-fledged vision for something different in the car scene, and now, two years in, it’s showing no signs of slowing down.

How It All Started

It all began with a broken trophy.

At a show in Reno, Nevada, one of Ryan’s friends won Best of Show—only for the award to break on stage. What could’ve just been a funny moment turned into something more. Ryan made a cheeky Instagram post about it, which rubbed another organizer the wrong way. But instead of letting the drama escalate, Ryan turned the situation into fuel.

Exactly 75 days later, the first South Shore Showdown took place. It wasn’t about making a point anymore—it was about building something real. The response from the community was overwhelming. What was meant to be a one-time event quickly became an annual celebration, welcoming modified car lovers, families, and first-timers alike.

Redefining What a Car Show Can Be

From day one, South Shore Showdown set out to be different.

This wasn’t about trophies or who had the most expensive build. It was about creating a space where people could be themselves, show off their creativity, and connect with others who love cars just as much. Whether you're into JDM cars, stanced builds, or raw track machines, there’s room for you here.

In 2025, the show returned for its second year on July 5th in South Lake Tahoe. The timing was intentional—right after Independence Day, giving people a unique car culture experience during an already buzzing weekend. Sure, the holiday timing had its challenges, but it also helped shape the event into something distinct, and the lessons learned will help refine future events even more.

Expanding the Vision: The Showdown Series

Looking ahead, the South Shore team isn’t just staying in one place—they're building something bigger. In 2026, they’ll launch the Showdown Series—a three-part event tour across California.

• SoCal Show – April

• Bay Area Show – June

• Finals in Lake Tahoe – August

At each event, winners will earn their spot to compete in the Showdown Finals, where the best builds from across the state will battle it out for the title of Showdown Champion. This structure not only creates more chances for people to participate, but it keeps the hype rolling all season long.

Giving Back in Big Ways

One of the most unforgettable moments from 2024? Giving away a Nissan R34 Skyline. Yes, really. At Wekfest San Jose, Ryan and the team raffled off a legit dream car to one lucky winner—Cha Thao of Fresno, California. That moment wasn’t just huge for Cha—it was huge for the whole community. It proved that South Shore Showdown isn’t just about cars; it’s about giving back, making memories, and offering real opportunities to people who live and breathe the scene.

Expect another raffle as part of the 2026 season—and maybe even bigger surprises in store.

Built by Community, Driven by Passion

What truly makes South Shore Showdown special isn’t the cars—it’s the people. Ryan’s favorite part of the event? Meeting everyone. From the early morning roll-in to the late-night trophy handouts, he’s there shaking hands, catching up with old friends, and welcoming new faces. These human moments are what fuel the show’s energy—and turn it from an event into a movement.

Supporting Ryan every step of the way is Deep Pockets, his tight-knit crew of friends turned family. What began as a car club has evolved into the backbone of the entire operation. These guys help with everything from logistics and design to promotion and planning. Without them, the South Shore Showdown wouldn’t be what it is today.

A Reminder to Keep Dreaming

South Shore Showdown stands as proof that big things can grow from simple ideas. It's a celebration of hustle, community, and having the guts to take an idea and run with it. In an automotive world sometimes dominated by big sponsors and flashy brands, this is a show that brings it all back to what matters—people, passion, and purpose.

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