So-Cal Speed Shop Powers into the Future as
Founder Alex Xydias Celebrates Birthday Number 99
Exciting news from the So-Cal Speed Shop camp! Peter Chapouris IV is back at So-Cal Headquarters and has been appointed the General Manager position. Peter, the son of the late Pete Chapouris, was practically born in a hot rod and has that same love and passion for the industry. He is excited and is committed to carry on the legacy of this iconic brand.
But that’s not all, So-Cal is celebrating its 75th Anniversary this year. The brand was started in 1946 by Alex Xydias as a single speed shop located in Burbank Ca. supplying hot rod parts to a growing contingent of hot rodders and dry lake racers. Alex Xydias just celebrated his 99th birthday last month and is still going strong. He eagerly wrote a letter attached below describing his thoughts on the continuation of the So-Cal Speed Shop legacy.
Alex Xydias
Sun Valley, CA – March 29, 2021
The date was March 4, 1946 – I was 23 years old.
I had just been discharged from the Air Force after 3-1/2 years and I had decided to open a speed shop. Of course, I had no money! I knew nothing about business and nobody in hot rodding had even heard of me. On the plus side, I loved hot rods. I had gone to the dry lakes before the war (never raced) and had taken Auto Shop at Fairfax High. So… No Problem, the rest is history. Wow! That was 75 years ago!
The So-Cal logo is again being held high by a group that respects its history and are inspired by its future. But wait… there’s more! The Chapouris name is returning to So-Cal!
Pete Chapouris #4 is stepping in for his dad, Pete Chapouris #3. He is the new General Manager. His assets for So-Cal are countless. He almost grew-up at the shop. He was trained by one of the best. He understands what built the brand to worldwide fame. “Quality in all things”
Congratulations Pete, Tom, Matt and Carol!
Signed,
Alex Xydias
PS. Do I still get my discount?
On a personal note – I think of Peter as my Grandson.