Things that come to mind when I think of vans – The A-Team, southwestern murals with obligatory coyote, Chris Farley’s Down by the River and child predators.
I never considered vans enthusiasts’ vehicles. They lack the seductive curves found on coupes and sedans. They are absent the performance and capability of trucks and SUVs. Vans simply carry goods and people from one place to another in a tall, uninteresting, box of metal.
Their enormous interior dimensions make them ideal for Pimp-Flip-Monster My Ride projects, but the average consumer doesn’t need to accommodate 6-12” subwoofers, an aquarium and a blackjack table.
Most vans are bought to haul kids, commuters or cargo.
Vans are not what come to mind when I think car culture. That changed last night.
While on a tryptophan-induced digital walkabout I stumbled upon a video that left me completely and utterly at a loss of words. I turned to my wife, as if to say something, yet I could find no words.
I turned the laptop in her direction, hitting play as it rotated. This is what she witnessed:
A part of me was laughing, another part wondered if this was real, and yet the non-prejudice enthusiast in me was screaming “AWESOME!”
What in the world had I just watched?
It appears to be a documentary on the life, culture and companionship that van owners share. It focuses on an annual Vannin’ event that is strictly Vanners-Only!
Once I was able to move and think – I watched the video again. No longer suffering from the intial shock.
While I’ll likely never be a Vanner, I admire those that elect a life of custom Vannin’. The next time I see a tricked out GMC Safari, I’ll nod my head in respect.
That person is no different than me, an enthusiast.
