GTINI TITANIC DUBS 2020

NO IS NOT AN ANSWER

Text and Photos: Reinis Babrovskis

2020…Yeah there is not much to say here; it has been a tough year for all of us.

With the entire Planet having been shut down for months thanks to the “China virus”, I’d say it will take a while for the Planet to boot up again. We have all fought our battles but we will get through this, be patient and above all - kind. The Covid-19 did grind any chances of any car event in 2020 to a halt; however, one club didn’t take “no” for an answer was GTINI, having lost already the biggest show of the country as well as the fan’s favourite – Castlewellan summer show. So with large amount of planning, hard work and luck as well as blessing from the council, Police force of Northern Ireland and others the Titanic Dubs was a go.

#MINIWÖRTHERSEERSEE2020

Typically the third and final of the annual GTINI shows takes place in Belfast at the Titanic dry dock/Pump house. The spectacular and unique location is both historically and visually so impressive that with a bit of boost and support from the Government it really could become the mini Wörtherseerse of NI.

Built in 1911 to accommodate the launch of the 2 goliaths – Titanic and Olympic, the Belfast dry dock naturally separates the venue in half offering a huge potential for various layouts. Furthermore, the venue also features the world’s largest pump house and is in the close proximity of the Titanic museum and Belfast’s icon Harland and Wolff cranes. See the bigger picture now? It really is a phenomenal show location, and I hope we all appreciate how lucky we’re that GTINI was secured it for this exact reason.

#GOODVIBESONLY

If GTINI’s season opener "Dubshed" is the busiest and most stressful of the three, the season’s finalist "Titanic Dubs" is known for its chilled and relaxed atmosphere. And you know what; the big, bad 2020 hadn’t changed that in the slightest. With all the social distancing restrictions and safety precautions in place people still were having fun with friends, having BBQs with family and enjoying the only show of the 2020 in Northern Ireland.

Despite not being as busy nor full as it usually would be there were still plenty of cars to be seen, traders to visit and thanks to the Monster Energy drinks to be had.

#WINNERS

No crowd gathering meant the usual prize-giving was never on the books; however, it didn’t mean the prizes were not to be won. The judges still awarded the prizes to the most worthy whilst casually making their way around the show. The trophies, resembling the Titanic, were made by the very talented "Shortshift" company. As always the list of winners can be found on the official GTINI page.

#MYAWARDS

In the typical fashion I avoided reading about which cars took home the prizes and instead would like to mention the ones that stood out the most to be (being a complete VAG noob).:

PORSCHE 911

Probably one of the coolest German cars ever built - the aircooled 911. With the unmistakeable body lines and engine noise this is a car that won't ever go out of style. This particular example really appealed to me as it seems to be set up for a track and fast road driving, yet still is maintained to a show quality. Loved it.

VW BEETLE

There were three VW Beetles that stood out for me on the day. This was the first of them. Finished to a superb level this Beetle incorporates OEM and modified with a perfect balance.

VW GOLF GTI CLUBSPORT

I may have very limited interest and knowledge of VAG cars but even I can tell you this is a very, very special Golf. The track oriented Clubsport is everything a modern sports hatchback should really be about - none of this luxury, technology or mpg nonsense. Pure raw FWD sports car that was made to be pushed top the limits.

VW GOLF R

Mark's VW Golf R caught my attention a while ago and we recently featured this car. This is what a perfect VW Golf R is to me. The level of attention to detail is second to none - from the superb interior featuring the Wingback seats and carbon struts to the ideal engine mods. I love it.

VW BEETLE

This rat look VW Beetle is right up my street. What may look like a junkyard special is actually a car that has got more attention to details than some of the high end show cars. Every corner the Beetle has some cool details. Really, really cool car.

VW FAMILY

This family owned not one but two cars that grabbed my attention. Whilst we have seen the Camper van at previous shows the VW Beetle was fresh in the scene, having been just restored. It is finished to a very high standard and certainly is an eye candy.

#OUTRO

As always would just love to thank all the individuals that made this event happen during these times, and we really appreciate the hard work, we really do. It was definitely needed for a lot of us. Here's to hoping GTINI can pull out some magic tricks again in 2021.