The motif of a car can be a point of pride. Especially for enthusiasts here for Syracuse Nationals. But those who have cruised the fair grounds for years know that nationals are more than parked cars. 

“We went around and around like it was our own race strip,” said Syracuse Resident Andrew Pocri.

Down on Erie Blvd. Friday, you can find people waiting to spot their favorite ride and some with a need for speed.

“We do it for self expression and a little competition to ourselves,” said Syracuse Resident Zevin Cruz.

In Syracuse it’s a car-lover tradition to take your ride down to the Blvd. and race the night away. 

“As far as old timers, I mean I to some degree I get it, times have changed,” said Syracuse Police Officer Ben Gardener.

But weeks of street racing and complaints led to the Syracuse Police Department to concentrate units to the stretch for nationals weekend.

“Yeah I’m sure they do. You get a lot of people that don’t want to stop doing what they’re doing. As you said it, a lot of them take it as a challenge,” said Gardener.

Police say they are looking for unauthorized speed contests and other traffic violations. Mostly, they say they are tying to ensure the safety of all here to enjoy the cars.