STORY: Classic car show held in Deir el Qamar, Lebanon
DATELINE: Sept. 12, 2023
LENGTH: 00:02:35
LOCATION: DEIR EL QAMAR, Lebanon
CATEGORY: SOCIETY

SHOTLIST:
1. various of the show
2. SOUNDBITE 1 (Arabic): FARID ATTAYA, Organizer
3. various of the show
4. SOUNDBITE 2 (Arabic): FARID ATTAYA, Organize
5. various of the show
6. SOUNDBITE 3 (Arabic): SALMAN HASSAN, Classic car owner

STORYLINE:

A classic car show was held Sunday in Deir el Qamar, a historic town in south-central Lebanon, featuring about 50 classic cars from different eras.

This year's show was highlighted by two cars belonging to the late Lebanese President Camille Chamoun. They were on display for the first time.

Farid Attaya, organizer of the show, believes that this show would encourage tourism into the region, and gather classic car enthusiasts to exchange ideas and information.

SOUNDBITE 1 (Arabic): FARID ATTAYA, Organizer
"The idea behind the show is to revive and encourage tourism to this region and let the people interact. But the most important thing is to gather the lovers of classic cars and exchange ideas and information about the cars."

However, Attaya pointed to the harsh economic situation in the country that hinders his work in organizing the show.

SOUNDBITE 2 (Arabic): FARID ATTAYA, Organizer
"It is true that during these times, it is hard for us to organize the show. There are many people who let go of their cars during these harsh times for the Lebanese. But despite all the difficulties, we are trying to preserve these cars, because they represent in a way a tradition or legacy and a fortune for the country. After all, during a crisis, you have to come up with an idea to confront the crisis and not let it overcome you. That is the idea."

For Salman Hassan, owner of a classic car on display at the show, passion has made him keep the costly hobby.

SOUNDBITE 3 (Arabic): SALMAN HASSAN, Classic car owner
"Honestly it is a very costly habit. But for me, it is my passion. Whatever the cost would be, I've been working on refurbishing my car, a 1964 convertible Mustang, for two years now and honestly driving it is worth 100 times driving a new car. I prefer it to all other cars. The cars you see on display here represent my passion. I have no problems seeing them or driving one of them every day. But it is a very costly hobby, and it costs me a lot. There are people who do not care about these cars but for me, they are special."

Xinhua News Agency correspondents reporting from Deir el Qamar, Lebanon.
(XHTV)