See vintage and rare autos at Sunday's Geneva Concours d'Elegance
The party coming up Sunday, Aug. 25, on Geneva's popular Third Street is by invitation only.
But that applies only to the cherished, rare automobiles on display at the Geneva Concours d'Elegance. No invitation or admission is required for car enthusiasts who want to browse and admire some 200 classic, antique and modern cars.
"The cars are invited to appear based on rarity, value and restoration," said John Maxon, who has been writing the competitive show's program book for about 10 years.
Cars roll into town and set up in the city's downtown area about 9 a.m. Judging begins at 10 a.m., followed by an awards ceremony at 1 p.m., and the show wraps up at 4 p.m.
This year, Maxon said, though a variety of makes and models will be included, three types of cars will be featured: cars produced by the Stutz Motor Car Company of Indianapolis, cars made by British automaker Allard, and Bentleys. Other cars represented will include Fords, Lincolns, Cadillacs, Dodges and Plymouths, he said.
The Chicago region of the Sports Car Club of America will celebrate the SCCA's 75th anniversary at the event.
Maxon said the contest, an annual event in Geneva, is a big draw.
"This actually is a show done in cooperation with the city of Geneva. There's 100,000 people there. This is a pretty popular show," he said. "It grows every year and the cars get more prestigious."
Cars and drivers come from all over the Midwest - Indiana, Iowa and Michigan, he said.
The show's proceeds will benefit the LivingWell Cancer Resource Center, a Geneva organization that offers resources and support for cancer patients.
When the judges have made their decisions, trophies will be awarded.
"Highly qualified judges examine each car and award the coveted Benz Trophy for the best restorations and best preservations in 16 categories," said Maxon. "That's one of the attractions of the show - the prestige, pride of ownership. Bob Joynt does the presentation of awards. He does a commentary on each car. It's a big deal ceremony."
Maxon said he will exhibit his dark green 1941 Packard convertible.
"Mine is actually preserved. It's extremely clean. It's been repainted. I drive mine to the show. A classic car is meant to be driven all over the place," said the Riverwoods resident. "I had a friend who had one of that vintage. I drove one and fell in love with it. I found it in Connecticut and had it shipped to Illinois."
Maxon said he also has a 1931 Model A Ford along with two "regular" cars that he uses for daily transportation.
The show will include a "club lot."
"You can go there not to be judged, it's just for show," he said.
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Geneva Concours d'Elegance
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 25
Where: South Third Street, Geneva
Admission: Free
Info: genevaconcours.net