mmccolm@valleypublishinginc.com 

MONTE VISTA - The roar of engines, the sparkle of chrome and the unmistakable sound of MC Magic filled the Ski-Hi Complex on May 9 as Wild West Border Warz IV brought together custom cars, live music and culture in one of the San Luis Valley’s largest community celebrations. 

More than 550 people attended the event, which featured 81 to 82 entries ranging from lowriders and classic cars to bicycles and remote-control cars. Vendors, food and a full concert lineup kept the crowd energized from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m. 

The day’s biggest attraction was MC Magic, the platinum-selling artist known for blending hip-hop, R&B and Latin influences. According to MC Magic's official website, he is best known for hits such as Sexy Lady and Princess and has built a devoted following throughout the Southwest. 

Organizer Petey Garcia of Rollerz Only said the excitement surrounding the artist exceeded even his expectations. 

“There was a line clear down the block when we opened the door,” Garcia said. “MC Magic did a meet and greet at the beginning of the show, and there were probably about 400 people in line.” 

Garcia said MC Magic spent two to two and a half hours meeting fans before he had to prepare for his performance. 

“Otherwise, he would have stood there and done more,” Garcia said. 

The concert itself created unforgettable memories. Garcia said MC Magic invited one fan onstage to perform with him and handed out 40 roses to audience members. 

“He made everybody’s night,” Garcia said. 

Garcia has organized the Monte Vista car show for four years, but his experience producing concerts and community events dates back to 2012. 

“I’ve been doing the car show in Monte Vista for four years. This was my fourth year,” Garcia said. “But I’ve been doing concerts and all that since 2012. I’ve been trying to get it bigger and bigger every year, and finally it’s been catching more attention.” 

For Garcia, Wild West Border Warz is about more than entertainment. It is an opportunity to celebrate culture and bring large-scale events to a region where many residents do not often travel to larger cities. 

“That’s what I aim for,” Garcia said. “I try to put something on for our culture too.” 

Throughout the day, families admired rows of meticulously detailed vehicles, children proudly displayed custom bicycles and attendees enjoyed music, food and fellowship. 

Garcia said the gratitude he receives from the community is what motivates him to continue. 

“My favorite part is seeing how excited everyone is to attend,” Garcia said. “So many people come up to me and say, ‘Thank you for doing this. You did a wonderful job.’ Hearing that truly touches me.” 

Garcia added that one of the most meaningful aspects of the event is being able to organize it alongside his father and family. For him, bringing people together and seeing the smiles on their faces is what makes all the hard work worthwhile. 

Although the event requires significant financial investment, Garcia said profit has never been his motivation. 

“I do it for everybody else,” Garcia said. “It costs so much, and I don’t make anything off of it. I break even, if that. I’m just doing it to share with everybody and give them that experience because not many get out of the Valley.” 

Garcia said he plans to bring Border Warz back next year and is already preparing for another major event. On June 26, he will host “Them Good Old Days,” featuring the 69 Boyz, known for the hit Tootsee Roll. 

Before ending the interview, Garcia expressed gratitude to those who helped make Border Warz possible. 

“I want to thank all my sponsors, all my supporters and everybody that believes in me and my abilities,” Garcia said. “It’s just beautiful to have you guys.” 

For the hundreds who packed the Ski-Hi Complex, Wild West Border Warz IV delivered exactly what Garcia envisioned — a vibrant celebration of cars, music, culture and community spirit.