RTR Vehicles Makes a Big Impression at Ponies in the Smokies 2025

RTR Vehicles Makes a Big Impression at Ponies in the Smokies 2025

We kicked off the 2025 show season at Ponies in the Smokies with our biggest appearance yet. From drift demos to exclusive merch drops, it was an unforgettable week with the Mustang community.

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By Jaron Cole 2 comments
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The 2025 show season kicked off in style with Ponies in the Smokies, a week-long Mustang celebration held from Wednesday, March 26th, to Saturday, March 29th, in Sevierville, TN. As one of the most anticipated early-season events, it brought together Mustang enthusiasts from all over to share their passion, showcase their rides, and kick off the year with a bang. This year marked RTR Vehicles’ third consecutive appearance at the event, but it was undoubtedly the largest and most exciting one yet.

Day One: Drift Demos and Ride-Alongs at Newport Speedway

The action started on Wednesday as the RTR rig rolled into Newport Speedway, where we had the Hyper Lime Mustang RTR Spec 3 on display. Fans were buzzing with excitement as Ben Hobson arrived in his own Mustang RTR Spec 3, equipped with a trailer full of extra wheels and tires that he brought for the drift demos. Throughout the day, Ben drifted his Mustang RTR Spec 3, giving fans a front-row seat to the action. Some lucky attendees even scored ride-alongs with Ben! The energy was high, and the excitement set the tone for the rest of the week.

Day Two: Mustang RTR Owners Tail of the Dragon Cruise

On Thursday, Vaughn Gittin Jr. and Ben Hobson led a cruise through the Tail of the Dragon, joined by over 20 Mustang RTR owners. Spirits were high as everyone enjoyed their cars for what they were built to do. After we cruised through the 11 miles and 318 curves of the Tail of the Dragon, we went to Fontana Village for some lunch. New friends were made, and we fostered new and existing relationships amongst our Mustang RTR owners. It was a truly unique experience that showcased the ethos and community we have created around the RTR brand. 

Day Three: Ponies in the Smokies Car Show 

Friday was the big car show day at the Seviereville Convention Center! The RTR rig was set up just outside the convention center, serving as the central hub for RTR fans. We brought out a lineup of RTR Mustangs that drew crowds all weekend long. On display was a Hyper Lime Mustang RTR Spec 3, Vaughn Gittin Jr.'s Mustang RTR Spec 5-D featuring his brand-new livery for the 2025 season, and a Molten Magenta Mustang RTR Spec 2.

Vaughn and Ben engaged with the Mustang community, signed memorabilia, took photos, and swapped stories with Mustang enthusiasts. 

Inside the convention center, Tindol Ford Performance had a couple of RTR Mustangs on display. Tindol Ford is currently our largest RTR Authorized Dealer! They have sold over 110 RTR Mustangs since they became a dealer in 2024.

We released some exclusive merch during the Ponies in the Smokies car show, which included the new Jada Toys 1:24 die-cast models. Fans eagerly bought them, and many took the opportunity to have Vaughn and Ben autograph their new collectibles. Additionally, we debuted a new lineup of RTR apparel at the event, offering fans a sneak peek of items set to drop very soon! Here is a sneak peek of what’s to come! 

Day Four: Ponies in the Smokies Car Show & Cruise In

Saturday was more laid-back as the RTR Team took some time to explore the show field and convention center, spotting RTR Mustangs and RTR-equipped cars. As the day wrapped up, the awards ceremony took place.

We presented the RTR Vehicle’s Choice award to Lonnie McDaniel and his Foxbody. Despite a crash at the drag strip earlier in the week, Lonnie proudly displayed his car throughout the event, embodying the resilient spirit of the Foxbody community. It was a powerful moment that highlighted both the passion and perseverance of Mustang enthusiasts.
A Hyperlime Mustang RTR Spec 3 on a mountain road

An Unforgettable Weekend

This year’s Ponies in the Smokies was truly something special for RTR Vehicles. It was the first time RTR attended in full force, marking Vaughn Gittin Jr. and Ben Hobson’s debut at the event. Both drivers were blown away by the energy, excitement, and passion the Mustang community brought to Sevierville. The combination of impressive builds, engaging fan experiences, and heartfelt stories made Ponies in the Smokies 2025 an unforgettable way to kick off the 2025 car show season.

2 comments

Noah Hawkins

Noah Hawkins

Good seeing you guys as always…Thanks for the owners cruise me and crew had a blast! Hope we do it again next year.

Good seeing you guys as always…Thanks for the owners cruise me and crew had a blast! Hope we do it again next year.

Betty Parham

Betty Parham

Saw the red car and fell in love all over again She had pictures taken with Vaughan and started to deal with Lyle Sturgis A week after Ponies in the Smokies she pulled the pin A Red 25 RTR stage 3

Saw the red car and fell in love all over again She had pictures taken with Vaughan and started to deal with Lyle Sturgis A week after Ponies in the Smokies she pulled the pin A Red 25 RTR stage 3

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