Dale Kristensen and Jolene MacIntyre bring automotive expertise and star power to the Wharf Rat Rally’s newest event.

The Wharf Rat Rally is excited to announce that two well-known personalities from Canadian automotive television will be joining us for the inaugural Rat Rods Car Show, presented by Digby Marine Supply, on Sunday, September 6.

Dale Kristensen, star of Underdog Inc. and Backroad Truckers, and Jolene MacIntyre, producer and creative force behind Discovery Channel’s Bad Chad Customs, will serve as Special Guest Judges, helping recognize some of the incredible vehicles on display during this exciting new addition to Rally weekend.

Their combined experience, passion for the automotive world, and appreciation for craftsmanship make them the perfect additions to the judging panel.

Meet Dale Kristensen

Known to audiences across Canada through AMI’s record-breaking docuseries Underdog Inc. and HISTORY’s Backroad Truckers, Dale Kristensen has built a reputation for tackling some of Western Canada’s toughest jobs with determination, skill, and an unwavering “never quit” attitude.

Standing just 4’2″ and born with achondroplasia, Dale has never allowed his disability to define what he can accomplish. From operating heavy equipment and rebuilding engines to hauling urgent loads and recovering vehicles in some of the country’s most demanding environments, Dale has become an inspiration to people far beyond the automotive community.

Dale’s greatest pride, however, is being a father to his son, Cooper. His determination and resilience continue to inspire audiences while showing that obstacles are meant to be overcome.

Dale will be joining us throughout the entire Wharf Rat Rally weekend. In addition to judging the Rat Rods Car Show, attendees will have opportunities to meet him, hear his story, and take photos throughout the event. More details on those appearances will be announced soon.

Meet Jolene MacIntyre

Joining Dale on the judging panel is Jolene MacIntyre, a Canadian media producer, entrepreneur, and automotive storyteller best known for her work behind Discovery Channel’s Bad Chad Customs.

As producer, cinematographer, and one of the creative minds behind the internationally recognized brand, Jolene helped transform a small custom car shop in rural Nova Scotia into one of the most recognizable names in automotive entertainment.

Her work extended well beyond television. Through digital media and innovative storytelling, she helped build an online automotive community that reached millions of enthusiasts around the world, generating more than 100 million social media views each month at its peak.

With a lifelong passion for classic cars, custom builds, and the talented people behind them, Jolene brings a unique perspective to this year’s Rat Rods Car Show.

Jolene will be joining us on Sunday as part of the Rat Rods Car Show, where she’ll meet participants, connect with automotive enthusiasts, and help select this year’s award winners.

The Rat Rods Car Show

Making its debut at the 2026 Wharf Rat Rally, the Rat Rods Car Show is designed to celebrate automotive passion in all its forms.

Despite the name, the show welcomes all makes, models, years, and styles of vehicles, including:

  • Classic Cars
  • Muscle Cars
  • Hot Rods
  • Rat Rods
  • Customs
  • Trucks
  • Imports
  • Modern Performance Vehicles
  • Antique and Specialty Vehicles

Registration begins at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, September 6, with the show taking place along Water Street in downtown Digby.

Participants will compete for trophies and prizes while having their vehicles evaluated by an outstanding panel of judges with diverse automotive backgrounds.

More Than Just a Car Show

The addition of the Rat Rods Car Show represents another exciting step in the continued growth of the Wharf Rat Rally.

For more than two decades, the Rally has celebrated motorcycle culture while welcoming enthusiasts from across Atlantic Canada and beyond. The Rat Rods Car Show expands that tradition by bringing together people who share a passion for craftsmanship, horsepower, creativity, and the stories behind every build.

Whether you arrive on two wheels or four, you’ll find something to admire.

Join Us This Labour Day Weekend

The 2026 Wharf Rat Rally takes place September 4–6 in beautiful Digby, Nova Scotia.

Don’t miss your opportunity to meet Dale Kristensen and Jolene MacIntyre, check out some incredible vehicles, and experience the very first Rat Rods Car Show, presented by Digby Marine Supply.