In October, the Jaguar Club of Southwest Florida hosted what very few JCNA clubs have attempted – the International Jaguar Festival (IJF). The IJF, which moves locations from year to year, is intended to be a multi-day, Jaguar-filled fun fest culminating with the Concours d’Elegance. Congratulations to Phil Mannino and the entire organizing team for a great few days!
The event took place at the Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort and Spa in Fort Meyers. Even if you’re not into Jags, the location was top notch for a few days of R&R. Kicking off the event on October 20th was a visit to the world-renowned Revs Museum. The Revs Institute specializes in automobile history, research and related educational programs. It houses the Miles Collier Collections of over 100 significant automobiles built between 1896 and 1995, including some of the rarest cars and race cars in the world. It also has one of the largest specialized automotive libraries in the world. A 12,000-square-foot workshop is also dedicated to auto restoration and the development of innovate ways to care for antique machinery. If any readers are planning their Florida get-away this winter, add the Revs Institute to your list. Fantastic. Wednesday culminated in a sunset cruise.
The Car Rally and Scenic driving tour on Thursday was a great way to see Sanibel in style. Apart from the lovely beaches in the area, Sanibel is also known for preserving natural ecology. As a result, there are a number of wildlife refuges which are accessible to visitors. Thursday night was also the formal “meet and greet” where participants in the Concours gathered to get the lowdown for Friday’s Concours d’Elegance.
There were about 66 Jaguars presented for judging, both Championship and Driven early Friday morning (starting at 6:30 am!). At least twenty vehicles also were on display. There was an incredible array of E-Types present, a fantastic tribute to the 60th Anniversary of the E-Type. Remarkably, there were three pre-war Jaguars (including one owned by JCNA President John Boswell), an XJ 220, a stunning collection of XK’s as well as a freshly restored Mark IX which ultimately took the Best of Show Award. The field itself was notable for the presence of many of our own Jaguar Club of South Florida members. George Hervert with his Series I E-type was a featured vehicle in the event as was Chris Lapinski with his stunning 1934 SS1 Tourer. Brad Cline showed his 1967 E-Type Roadster in Opalescent Golden Sand, fresh from restoration. Del Fruit brought his British Racing Green E-Type, the first official show for the XKE. Chris and Lesley Karentz showed their gorgeous, “time bubble” XJS, new members Dave and Sharon Hillman wowed the crowd with their Jag beauty while Warren and Sharon Aplin had their lovely 1988 Series III XJ on the field. Member Pascal Gademer, a Jaguar enthusiast for many years, was in attendance with his Gray E-Type, nicely tricked out to accommodate daily driving and long road trips. It was so great to meet up with old friends, Larry and Debbie Ligas, Jerry Wise, Steve and Sherri Register, and Pat Geary. Truly a tribute to how enthusiasm for classic vehicles can bring us all together. A big congratulations to the Jaguar Club of Southwest Florida for an outstanding event!
In a joint event with the Gold Coast British Car Club, a group visited the Dauer Museum of Classic Cars. This museum, which recently opened to the public, is dedicated to promoting the history and preservation of scientific past. This includes many cars plus memorabilia, science and technology which left us all feeling inspired by our history. This is a collector’s dream, with over 55 classic cars in truly pristine condition dating back to 1906. While primarily American vehicles, there are several choice models Rolls Royce, Bentley and even an Italian car or two. Located in Sunrise, this is another great venue to bring folks together. Another one for the “winter in Florida” list! Thank you Dr. Dauer for opening your fabulous museum for this group!
Happy motoring all!
