The Hilton Head Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival, now in its 22nd year, once again proved itself to be a premier destination for automotive enthusiasts from around the globe. Set against the stunning backdrop of Hilton Head Island in South Carolina, this event was a convergence of classic luxury, refined beauty and a touch of whimsy in the famed Low Country. In a sea of new and emerging automotive events, Hilton Head stands out as one that combines unprecedented elegance with a casual vibe that is completely unpretentious.
There’s always a cool twist to the Hilton Head event which makes it unique amongst premier Concours events. This year Hilton Head Island Concours partnered with the Rolls-Royce Owners’ Club (RROC) and the RROC’s Southeast Region to host an exciting weekend ‘Mini Meet’ for club members and event guests. The Rolls-Royce Owner's Club curated a stunning display of “Proper Motor Cars” showcasing many of the finest bespoke examples of hand-built luxury and opulence of the automobile world.
On Saturday, the extremely popular Car Club Showcase, was an amazing array of classic cars from Car Clubs far and wide. Here, attendees were treated to cars that spanned decades. One feature was the 60th Anniversary of the Mustang, with representations from early days to current.
Now under the helm of President, Chris Brewer, Sunday’s Concours d'Elegance, lived up to its name. Each of the 500 + vehicles were judged by a panel of expert judges, who reviewed all aspects such as authenticity, restoration quality, historical significance, and design excellence. Picture perfect weather, seasoned MC Bill Rothermel, and the backdrop of the Port Royal Golf Club all contributed to the incredible experience. Honored marque was Bentley and Rolls-Royce. For us English car buffs, there was a class call “Rare English Open & Closed” and a special Jaguar XK Class. Rare English Open and Closed is where we spent most of our time, frankly. Rare English Best in Class went to the amazing SS1 Open Sports Tourer owned by Scott Bluestein. Ken Stranstrom’s Alvis Graber was a Palmetto Award winner as was Reed Tarwater’s MG PB. Speaking of Jaguars, the XK class featured only XK140 and XK150’s. The winners were all friends of the JCNA! Best in Class went to Robert Seyler’s fabulous black XK140, the owners appropriately decked out in period dress. A Palmetto Award went to Mike Mueller’s XK140 Willow Green FHC, fresh from showing at the Hangar Party the night before. The second Palmetto Award was owned by Ron Gaertner, with his stunning red XK150. Well done to our Jaguar owners!
After a tremendous day, both breezy and sunny, the event culminated in the announcement of the Best of Show. Congratulations to the 1911 Oldsmobile Limited Touring Car, displayed by David and Patricia Peeler of Weddington, North Carolina and the 1957 Ferrari 250 GT TdF displayed by Frederick Fischer of Wildwood, Missouri, were respectively crowned the Concours d’Elegance and Concours de Sport Best of Show winners. Very special vehicles indeed.
Congratulations to the organizers of this event, which gets better every year! See you next year!
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