ASHWAUBENON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Last October, the Freedom high school automobile club put hundreds of hours into a 1985 Toyota 4Runner.
The students rebuilt the vehicle, from the ground up and Sunday, the SUV was raffled off at Green Bay’s Motorama event.
The winner, Adam Lindley of Suamico, who also happens to be a Freedom High school graduate.
“I was following it, and it was kind of close to my heart, when I saw it and everything.”
The restoration project is part of program called ‘Project Front Runner.’
Students like Trevor Hintz, who worked on the vehicle, tell FOX 11 it brings a sense pride.
“Made us feel like we accomplished something, that’s for sure.”
Last fall, Hintz’ made the trip to Nevada, where the SUV was featured at one of the largest car shows in the world, SEMA Las Vegas.
“Multi-million-dollar cars every step you took. It was an amazing experience.”
Jay Abitz, the automotive instructor at the school, tells FOX 11 the program is all made possible by donations.
“Over a dozen sponsors for this vehicle. They sponsored us with tools, materials, cash donations for our expenses.”
As for what’s next?
Hintz says they’re already planning their next project.
“We haven’t decided for sure yet, but there are multiple vehicles that we will do.”
And Lindley says, the truck has become his newest prized possession.
“I’ll be driving it, not going to sell it. You can never have too many vehicles.”
All proceeds from the raffle benefit the Freedom High School Auto Club. The money is used for tools, materials, and scholarships.
