Many have heard about it, few know exactly what it’s about and fewer people even know how to pronounce it: Concours D’elegance. A celebration of some of the best examples of vehicles all under one roof, the Concours has been described as the one of the classiest events attended in Kenya.
This year’s CBA Concours D’elegance has been scheduled for the 25th of September at the Nairobi Ngong Racecourse and already the Alfa Romeo Owners Club –who have maintained the Africa Concours D’elegance tradition – has received over 61 car and 24 motorcycle entries for the prestigious event. The automobiles due to be showcased have been meticulously prepared and will be assessed by very experienced officials. The best are recognized by the overall prizes and awards in the 20 classes for all makes and types of cars and bikes.
The previous editions of the event have been nothing short of a success. The 2015 Concours saw cars and bikes being brought all the way from South Africa and Australia and an array of beautiful workmanship of vintage cars at the 2014 edition.
Some of the automobiles sure to grab the attention of the spectators are the 1949 Bentley MK VI of Roger Tanner, Paul Chemngorem’s 1962 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia and the 1972 Mercedes Benz 450SL classic rally car owned and prepared by Marzio Kravos who will be contesting the Concours under the sponsorship of DT Dobie. The massive motorcycles which will be ridden round the parade ring include the 2001 Honda Shadow of Prateek Singh Gulati and Sandeep Gill’s 2002 Yamaha Vista. Other latest additions to the list include a 1952 Ducati 65T motorcycle which is being rebuilt by Russel Hughes and his brother Mikey who are motoring enthusiasts based in Gilgil. This is the first time a Ducati will be appearing in the event which has been organized annually by the Alfa Romeo Owners Club since 1970.
Commercial Bank of Africa who have been title sponsors for around 5 years hope that their long term agreement with the Alfa Romeo Owners Club will keep raising the already high standards of content and organization & also encourage more and more competitors to locate and restore more cars and bikes.
Why you should go for this year’s Concours
Old is gold
Truth be told, most people prefer the classics. Be it in clothing, songs or even cars. As much as new models are popping up every day, there’s nothing better than the eye candy that a vintage car gives. These cars not only have the body of steel but have the grace of extreme workmanship; the work that was put into a machine to turn it into a work or art. Now who wouldn’t want to marvel at that?
A wide variety of automobiles
The Concours has over the years received multiple entries not just in Kenya but also from countries like Australia, England, Germany, Mauritius and Zimbabwe to name but a few. Bringing together an auction of some of the most fine and rare vehicles in the world, the Concours D’elegance, which means a gathering of elegance, is one of the finest events held in the Kenya motor sport calendar.
The presence of various trade stands
In addition to the judging of the classic and vintage cars and motorcycles contesting the Concours, the event features the Auto Expo consisting of 28 motor trade stands and a Classic Car and Motorcycle Sale. The Classic Sale offers an opportunity for owners of unwanted old cars and motorcycles to sell them to enthusiasts.
Fashion, food and entertainment
The CBA Concours is a family event and there is lots for families to do. There is usually a kids area where kids can play and learn and also goodies for the kids to take away. There are also food stands where somebody can get some great food to eat. It is also a fashionable event and this is a chance to dress up and show off your elegance. There are usually prizes for the best dressed people so you have a chance to win if fashion is your thing.
So mark your calendars for the 25th of September and come marvel at some of the most magnificent automobiles ever made!
