Driven by Legacy: Mick Even's 1953 Pontiac Chieftain Shines Bright at the 2024 Midwest Regional Hot Rod Rally

End of each summer in Moville, Iowa plays host to an unforgettable weekend where engines roar, chrome gleams, and stories unfold. And in 2024, one story in particular stood out—Mick Even of Le Mars, Iowa, brought home not one, not two, but three awards at the 6th Annual Midwest Regional Hot Rod Rally: Viewers' Choice, Best Brightwork, and the coveted Doerr Prize, awarded by Larry Doerr. But what makes Mick’s custom 1953 Pontiac Chieftain so special goes far beyond trophies.

For Mick, this build was never just about the car—it was about legacy.

Growing up in a Pontiac dealership in Alton, Iowa, Mick's love for the brand was ingrained early. But it was a friendship—and a promise—that gave this particular Chieftain its heartbeat. Purchased over a decade ago with his longtime friend, the car became their final shared project before his friend’s passing. It sat for a while, waiting patiently, until the time felt right.

Six Years. A Community of Talent. One Stunning Ride.

The transformation took six years and a tight-knit team of passionate artisans and friends. Every detail of the car speaks to thoughtful craftsmanship and innovation. Underneath, it's sitting on a 1984 GM G-body front sub-frame and a 1957 Chevy rear-end by Rocky Fey.

The 6.2L LS3 engine, salvaged from a 2012 Chevy Camaro, gives it modern performance wrapped in custom trim brings vintage class to a modern upgrade.

Inside, Darren Carlson fashioned 1965 Ford Thunderbird front bucket seats and a 1965 Buick Riviera rear seat in brown leather with wicker pattern accents. Darren also crafted the vintage luggage in the trunk to help hide the fuel tank.

The dash remains stock, maintaining a direct tie to its original Pontiac soul, while custom stainless trim mirrors the original hood accents. It also dawns a 1964 Dodge Polara center console — each piece carefully selected and repurposed.

The headlights? Sourced from a 1955 Oldsmobile. Stock Pontiac stainless trim was repurposed, straightened and polished by Pat Halter, and the custom-machined emblems, gas-filler cap, and steeling wheel centerpiece were crafted by Josh Leners. The original grill, bumpers, and chrome trim were replated, and the Indian head ornament lights up the night, giving the hood a warm glow at night.

Bodywork and paint, including shaved door handles were done by Lanny Loos, and the deep, rich Jaguar Caviar Pearl paint and bodywork by Jeff Roling at Classic Auto in Kingsley, Iowa. Their attention to detail ties it all together, creating an unforgettable silhouette that drew rally-goers in for a closer look.

The Fans Have Spoken

Attendees at the 2024 Rally were captivated—not just by the car’s sleek styling, but by the story woven into every curve and panel. That’s why Mick Even’s Chieftain was the resounding Viewers' Choice winner.

And that honor comes with even more: As tradition dictates, the Viewers’ Choice winner earns a special spot in the spotlight. Mick’s Pontiac will be featured in the logo, apparel, and marketing for the upcoming 2025 Midwest Regional Hot Rod Rally, held again at the Woodbury County Fairgrounds in Moville, Iowa.

Adding to the year’s accolades, Mick’s Chieftain was also honored as a Feature Pick at the 33rd Speedway Motors Heartland Nationals, and featured in GoodGuys Magazine (October 2024, pages 100–103), further cementing its place among top-tier custom builds.

Want more on Mick’s incredible build? Check out the feature in GoodGuys Magazine (October 2024, pages 100–103) and see the full video walkaround on Rana’s Radar YouTube Channel.

Looking Ahead

With the 7th Annual Midwest Regional Hot Rod Rally on the horizon, Mick Even’s story serves as a reminder of what this event is really about—community, craftsmanship, and connection. Whether you're a longtime hot rodder or just dipping your toes into the chrome-covered world, you'll want to mark your calendar for September 12-13, 2025.

Who knows? You might just be the next story we tell.