July 7, 1959  -  May 5, 2025

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our dear friend, colleague, and co-founder, Wayne Woodward Long, who left us on May 5, 2025. Wayne was not only a cornerstone of Concours LLC but also a cherished member of the automotive community.

Wayne graduated from WVU in 1985 with a BSCE in Civil Engineering. He enjoyed a diverse career, beginning as a Project Manager at Hampton Roads Sanitation District and National Marketing Engineer at U-Liner. He then embraced his entrepreneurial spirit, founding and partnering in several businesses including Pierpont Fuels, Mid-Atlantic Market, Mid-Atlantic Sports Cars, and Concours LLC.

Wayne’s lifelong passion for motorsports began before he was five years old. He grew up surrounded by the automotive world, as his parents and aunt and uncle, Susie and Dick Whiteman, were founding members of the Mon Valley Sports Car Club, which he later helped revitalize in 2007. Wayne began competing in motocross at the age of 14 and after retiring from racing dirt bikes he started competing in autocross events, which he continued for more than forty years.

Working together with his childhood friends Rick and David Biafora, he started Mid-Atlantic Sports Cars in 2007, a collector car dealership. He shared his experience and built relationships with many clients and several of the prominent auction houses over the years. Over time it became a central gathering place for his many friends and family to get together and share their lives. His office at MA Sports Cars was decorated grandly with museum-level memorabilia and collectibles throughout his years as a fixture within the automotive community.

He quickly became a respected figure in the car community, serving as Chief Judge and founder for the Cortile Cup awards of the Cortile Italian Car Show at the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix. He helped establish the Greenbrier Concours d'Elegance, judged for the Hilton Head Concours d'Elegance, the Sewickly Show, and others, and also laid the groundwork for the Las Vegas Concours through his company Concours LLC.

His dedication and knowledge earned him strong relationships with leading automotive brands including Panoz and the Dodge Viper Team. Wayne was a member of the Mon Valley Sports Car Club, Ferrari Club of America, Porsche Club of America, and Sports Car Club of America.

He was knowledgeable in and loved sharing the history of things, whether it be for people, places, cars, or events, and made him a natural mentor to those around him. Everywhere he went, he had a fascinating story to tell that went with it.

Wayne is survived by his wife Kim, his daughter Cassandra, his grandchild Jackson, his two sisters Janet and Sarah, and his brother Tom Jr.

A Celebration of Life will be held July 4th weekend with location and time to be announced at a later time. We’d love for everyone to bring their favorite fun vehicle out for a gathering that embraces his love of family, friends, and cars.

Wayne's legacy will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. His passion, integrity, and warmth left an indelible mark on the automotive world and our hearts.

PITTSBURGH, PA – April 27, 2025 – Motorsports excitement meets matchday energy as Concours LLC and Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC partner to launch a series of Formula 1 Watch Parties at Highmark Stadium. Starting April 20, fans of fast cars and thrilling competition are invited to gather in the heart of Pittsburgh to catch select F1 races in a vibrant, stadium-side setting.

The first five races selected for the series include:

• Miami Grand Prix – Sunday, May 4 at 4:00pm. Gates open 3pm.
  
• Monaco Grand Prix – Sunday, May 25 at 9:00am. Gates open 8am
  
• Spanish Grand Prix – Sunday, June 1 at 9:00am. Gates open 8am
  
• Austrian Grand Prix – Sunday, June 29 at 9:00am. Gates open 8am
  
• Belgian Grand Prix - Sunday July 27 at 9:00am. Gates open 8am
  

Each event will be hosted inside Highmark Stadium with access to a limited food menu, a cash bar at the Pub, and the camaraderie of fellow F1 enthusiasts. The space is designed to comfortably host 50–70 guests, with additional outdoor and club-level options available if attendance exceeds expectations.

For each race the gates will open 1 hour before race start time and close 1 hour after the race culminates. 

“We’re combining the energy of a live sports venue with the global thrill of Formula 1,” said Jeff Garner, President of Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC. “This partnership with Concours LLC brings a new kind of fan experience to Highmark Stadium.”

Bernard Martin, Founder of Concours LLC, added, “We’re excited to bring the community together to celebrate racing in a whole new way. These watch parties are for die-hard F1 fans and curious newcomers alike.”

If strong interest is shown, the series may expand to include additional races later in the 2025 season.

by Bernard Martin

by Bernard Martin

I had been reaching out to Bill Warner for nearly a decade to visit us at the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix.  It wasn't until he passed the torch of the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance to Hagerty that he could find the time.  So, it was really an honor to invite him to be the Grand Marshal for the 2024 Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix (PVGP) and recognize his incredibl contribution to automotive history. Bill Warner brings a wealth of experience, knowledge, and a contagious enthusiasm for all things automotive. His candor and humorous stories speak for themselves, as you'll see in the video below.

Not many know that Bill Warner was born in Pittsburgh in 1943 but spent his life in Jacksonville, Florida. Bill's journey from Jacksonville to motorsports photography, then racing, and to the founding of the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, one of the most prestigious automotive events in the world, reflects a lifetime devoted to the art and history of motoring.

In my interview with Bill from the 2024 PVGP, he shares stories about, among many other things, the origin story of the event and his even delves into his favorite cars ever displayed at the Amelia Island Concours, offering viewers a rare glimpse into his own personal insights and tastes. Bill’s passion shines through as he emphasizes that a Concours is ultimately about the people—not just the famous attendees, but also the volunteers and the camaraderie they create.

A standout moment occurs when he shares his impression of modern electric vehicles with 'piped-in' sound effects, just as the open-wheel formula cars begin their opening lap on the PVGP racecourse—an impeccable coincidence that we could not have timed better, even if we had planned it.

The Backstory on Kip Wasenko
During the interview, Bill acknowledges Kip Wasenko in the audience. I suppose I should provide a bit more backstory that you won't get in the video. For those who don't know, it's been said that Cadillac’s styling was stuck in a rut until GM put Kip in charge of a new two door concept car, and it was Kip who brought Cadillac back to its roots to embrace its racing heritage.

"Kip is credited with several significant designs. These include the Buick Wildcat Mid-Engine PPG Indy Series Pace Car, the Two-Rotor Mid-Engine Corvette Concept Car where he received his first Design Patent, and many Indy 500 and Daytona 500 Pace Cars. Kip was Cadillac's Chief Designer and is best known for the Design of the Cadillac EVOQ that was named “Best Concept Car at the 1999 North American International Auto Show."  This design initiated the Art & Science Design Direction which was recognized as a Design Renaissance for Cadillac. The EVOQ was sold to the public as the Cadillac XLR and XLR-V two seater performance sports car Kip felt Cadillac needed.

Kip applied the same Design Philosophy to the CTS-V, STS-V and the Cadillac LMP Race Car, developed with Riley & Scott, that raced LeMans. In addition, he designed the winning CTS-VR World Challenge Cadillac Race Cars by Pratt Miller. These race cars and the technology learned from Cadillac’s Racing Programs have contributed to the success of the world respected Cadillac V-Series Performance Cars. In February 2005, Motor Trend magazine recognized Kip’s contribution on their Power List, Kip continues on the track racing today!" (www.allantexlrinvitational.com)

The Backstory on Luigi Chinetti Jr.
During the interview, Bill and I look to Luigi Chinetti Jr., who's literally in the front row of the audience, to answer question about Ferraris. Bill playfully asks, "Would you prefer a short wheelbase Ferrari Berlinetta or a GTO?" The answer is in the video below, but to appreciate the significance of this exchange, it's really important to understand the Chinetti legacy.

Luigi Chinetti Sr., born in 1901 in Italy, was a pivotal figure in Ferrari's history. A skilled mechanic and racer, he won the 24 Hours of Le Mans three times, including Ferrari's first victory in 1949, where he drove nearly 23 hours himself. He got stuck being in the United States at the outbreak of WWII and became a US citizen which resulted in Chinetti becoming Ferrari's first dealer in North America, establishing the brand's dealer network on the continent. In 1958, he founded the North American Racing Team (NART), which played a crucial role in promoting Ferrari in American motorsport.

Luigi Chinetti Jr. followed in his father's footsteps, becoming a prominent figure in the Ferrari world and a talented racing driver. He began his racing career in the late 1960s, participating in events like the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring. His deep knowledge of Ferrari and his contributions to the brand's legacy are well-recognized.

The Chinetti family's connection to the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix (PVGP) and the Cortile is also significant. In 2023, Luigi Chinetti Jr. was honored as the Grand Marshal of the PVGP, highlighting the family's enduring influence in the automotive world. Their legacy continues to inspire enthusiasts and participants at events like the PVGP Cortile, celebrating Italian automotive excellence.

This interaction between Bill and Luigi really underscores the deep connections and rich history within the motorsports and automotive community that is a thread throughout our entire conversation.  In fact, this interchange led to a complete change in my "interview" later at the Cortile Lunchean when I just let these two share the floor. It's Hope and Crosby on stage! LOL.

A Memorable Conclusion
One of Bill's favorite memories that he shares in the video involves John Surtees, the legendary racer who remains the "only person to win World Championships on both two and four wheels." Albiet, I think Nuvolari should be mentioned, with an asterisk, every time this quote is used, hence why I'm using it as a quote.

Anyway, Surtees brought his iconic 1956 MV Agusta 500 to the 2001 Amelia Island Concours, where he was being honored, and the bike won an award. Bill recalls how, as he was calling out Surtees as the award winner,  Surtees didnt appear and Bill initially was told he had left the event before being really surprised by his grand entrance to accept the award. You'll need to watch the video to appreciate Bill telling it.  This serendipitous moment about awards couldn’t have been scripted and literally led seamlessly into our PVGP presentation of a special award to Bill from the my friend Paul Pigman from Amalgam. Watching Bill’s reaction as he received the award was truly touching; his genuine grateful emotion and surprise brought a truly poignant and heartfelt close to the interview.

Watch the Full Interview
Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to hear Bill Warner’s stories and insights. From his favorite cars to his reflections on the people who make events like the PVGP and Amelia Island Concours so special, this video is a really a must-watch for automotive enthusiasts.

by Bernard Martin

The location of any event can make or break its success. For automotive events, especially prestigious gatherings like Concours d’Elegance or classic car shows, the venue serves as more than just a backdrop. It becomes part of the story, enhancing the experience for attendees, participants, and sponsors alike. At Concours LLC, we understand that selecting the right location is paramount to delivering an unforgettable event.

Setting the Stage
The venue must align with the event’s theme and audience expectations. Whether it’s the lush greens of a golf course, the historic charm of a century-old estate, or the modern elegance of a luxury resort, the setting must exude character. For instance, a Concours d’Elegance held at a location steeped in automotive history or cultural significance creates an emotional connection and elevates the prestige of the event. And don't forget that you need to not only know your audience demographics but also how it cater to the right audience.

Destination Matters More Than You Think
It’s not just about the venue—your event destination can actually affect whether or not your guests will show up. In fact, 72% of event attendees say destination is a significant factor in whether or not they attend an event. Before you do anything, you have to make sure your event destination takes into account your event’s objective. You want to think about which destination (city, venue, and event space) will help you achieve your overall goal—whether it’s to promote your product, drive brand awareness, close deals, or cater to the right audience.

The Three Cs of Concour's Destination

1. Convenience: A venue may be super unique and awesome, but convenience is one of the biggest factors in event attendance. Begin by choosing your city carefully (is it easy to get to for your target audience?) and then choose a venue that’s conveniently located near restaurants, coffee shops, hotels, etc. For a Concours event, you really want it to be on or near a resort or a property where owners can walk to their rooms from the showfield. You need a hotel that can handle not only the cars for display but also parking for the car transporters to load and unload. Remember, it has to be convenient for those handling the cars and not just the owners—and truck drivers, mechanics, and detailers need accommodations that are reasonably priced. And don't forget your sponsors! Where are they staying? Where are they eating?  If you don't consider their budgets you're going to be cutting away at potential dollars that could have gone toward sponsorship revenue.
2. Climate: Don’t underestimate the power of bad weather on your event. Climate is a key factor to think about, especially since your event will likely take place outside. The first step is to research and find an annual precipitation and temperature chart for the geocoordinates of where you expect to hold the event. Look at the dates you are considering. If your host hotel is "always empty" at that time of year, perhaps there is a reason. Be prepared with contingency plans for unpredictable weather changes. You must have a rain plan, whether it’s the ability to move inside or reschedule to a different day. More about this later.
3. Cool Factor: Throw an event in any old city, and you might have a tough time luring out-of-town guests. But throw an event in, say, Sonoma, and you just might get people thinking, “Well, I’ve been wanting to plan a vacation, and I’ve never been to wine country, and work will pay for the flight…”. Or what about the ability to fly into a major city but 45 minutes away is an incredible resort with lots of rooms and stellar views. Downtown may be cool, but not as cool as a resort with a unique offering and great views!

Timing Is Everything
That’s one reason why we recommend Concours events be held on Saturdays, which puts the gala after the awards show and not the night before the awards show. People can let their hair down and talk about the cars that won instead of rushing to catch a flight on a Sunday night. This schedule creates a more relaxed and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. It also gives you a rain date on Sunday if the weather is absolutely horrid on Saturday!

Elevating the Experience
It all starts with looking at the Conours location as something more than just the place where content gets delivered. The venue—and the way it’s set up—should elevate all of the elements that the attendees find important. So to choose the right venue, we need to start by asking ourselves: What do attendees care about?

Based on a recent survey of 180 planners, it largely boils down to these four things:

• Access to interactive technology
• Flexibility of the location to meet the event objective
• Availability of networking spaces where attendees can engage each other after hours.
• Opportunity to discover authentic local culture, food, and experiences

Not every piece of the event is in your control. Think about it: The way peers interact with one another, the overall energy at the event, these are the “intangibles” that we can’t predict or force.

What we can control, however, are what we like to call the “tangibles.” Through these, we can at least try to prepare for the elements that are ultimately out of our hands. The city, venue, logistics for car load in, staging, seating, food and beverage offering, AV, decor, and agenda—all of these help set the stage.

Of all of the “tangibles,” choosing the venue is the single most important. It has a direct impact on the rest, and, more importantly, it has a direct impact on an attendee’s decision to attend.

Scenic Appeal
Stunning landscapes and architectural grandeur can enhance an event’s visual appeal, making it more memorable and media-friendly. Picturesque settings not only draw more attendees but also provide photographers and media outlets with compelling imagery, boosting post-event coverage. Imagine iconic cars displayed against a backdrop of rolling hills or a pristine coastline—these are the images that linger in memory and on social media feeds.

Staging the Concours for photography is just as crucial. Much like a painting, where you work from background to foreground, you must carefully consider what appears in the background of each image where a car will be staged. The goal is to create a backdrop that enhances the videos and photos of the car. Thoughtful planning of the winners' stage and its presentation is equally important. This is where onsite planning begins: from the background to the foreground and from the end of the event awards ceremony backward to the starting setup. By prioritizing these elements, you ensure that every shot captures the essence of the event beautifully.

Infrastructure and Amenities
A well-equipped venue can significantly impact the comfort and satisfaction of attendees. Consider facilities such as restrooms, food and beverage services, and shaded areas. Additionally, the availability of modern amenities, including high-speed internet for live streaming and robust electrical infrastructure for EV displays, can enhance the event’s appeal and functionality.

Community and Local Support
The support of the local community can be a game-changer. Partnering with nearby businesses, tourism boards, and civic organizations can amplify promotional efforts and generate goodwill. Communities that embrace an event often bring added resources, such as volunteers, sponsorship opportunities, and a built-in audience. This support can also ease permitting processes and foster long-term partnerships.

Creating a Legacy
The best venues are those that become synonymous with the event itself. Think of Pebble Beach, Amelia Island, or Villa d’Este—these locations have become iconic within the automotive world, drawing enthusiasts year after year. Building a long-term association between an event and its venue can create a legacy that resonates with future generations of collectors and fans.

Selecting the right location is an art and a science. At Concours LLC, we meticulously evaluate every aspect of a potential venue to ensure it meets the highest standards for our events. By prioritizing setting, accessibility, scenic appeal, infrastructure, community support, and security, we create experiences that leave a lasting impression. Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about the cars—it’s about the unforgettable moments shared in the perfect place.

If you've got questions or need some more ideas, give us a call!

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear friend and partner, Bruce E. Hall, on November 16, 2024, at the age of 77. Bruce was a cornerstone of the car enthusiast community and a cherished member of the Concours LLC family. Born in Charleston, West Virginia, he carried the spirit of his home state with him wherever he went, sharing his passion for cars, his wealth of knowledge, and his indomitable sense of humor.

Bruce’s lifelong love for motor vehicles began early. At the age of nine, he won a championship with his midget race car and went on to race snowmobiles, drag racers, and go-karts. After earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the West Virginia Institute of Technology, Bruce channeled his expertise into restoring collector cars and, later, transporting them. In 1998, he founded Applewood Motorcar Transport, a company that quickly became synonymous with reliability and precision in the antique, classic, and exotic car world. His reputation as a trusted Lamborghini transporter was unparalleled.

Bruce’s involvement in the automotive world extended far beyond his work. He was a fixture at car shows, from prestigious Concours d’Elegance events to local high school parking lot gatherings, always in his element and ready to “talk cars” with fellow enthusiasts. His warmth and knowledge made him a favorite among collectors and event organizers alike. Bruce was our team leader for logistics and transport at Concours LLC.

Wayne Long, a longtime colleague and friend, shared, “It is with a heavy heart I share the news of Bruce Hall’s passing. Bruce owned Applewood Motorcar Transport and performed services for Lamborghini and many other clients. Bruce has worked closely with Lamborghini for nearly 20 years, handling all the shipping of new Lamborghini's east of the Rocky Mountains. Bruce was a great friend and will be dearly missed.”

As Bernard Martin, Founder of the Cortile Italian Car Show and partner at Concours LLC, remarked, “Bruce was instrumental in developing the logistics plan for the inaugural Greenbrier Concours d’Elegance, and his company was our preferred carrier for display cars coming to the Cortile. Bruce was on top of everything, and you could count on him and his team to deliver exactly when and where you needed it. You could set your watch to it. He was a joy to work with, and his sense of humor, wit, and sarcasm made evening dinner and drinks something to look forward to when we let our hair down.”

Bruce was not only a dedicated professional but also a true ambassador for the car hobby. His charm, quick wit, and genuine kindness made him beloved by everyone he encountered. His deep connection to West Virginia and his pride in representing its culture and history left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Bruce leaves behind his wife of 45 years, Judi Edgell Hall, his children, grandchildren, and a host of family and friends who will forever treasure his memory. His canine companion, Lambo, was a constant presence by his side. Bruce’s legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the automotive community he enriched.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at Brian and Kelly Middleton’s farm in Charlestown, WV. Further details will be shared at a later date. We encourage those who knew and loved Bruce to join us in honoring his remarkable life and contributions to the car world.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Bruce’s memory to Hospice of the Panhandle, 330 Hospice Lane, Kearneysville, WV 25430 (online https://hospiceotp.org) ; or to Shriner’s Hospital for Children, Attn: Office of Development, 2900 Rocky Point Dr, Tampa, FL 33607 (online https://donate.lovetotherescue.org); or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 (online https://stjude.org)

by Bernard Martin

As a follow up on our article a few months ago, the History of Concours d'Elegance, we've been getting questions about what are the top concours in the world right now.  That can be a tough question to answer, especially if you hope to continue to get press credentials, but I'm giving it a go here.

The world of Concours d’Elegance represents the pinnacle of automotive artistry, luxury, and historical significance. From the shores of Lake Como to the scenic fairways of Pebble Beach, these events showcase the most exquisite and rare automobiles, blending elegance, innovation, and cultural heritage. Each Concours offers a unique experience, whether through its iconic setting, exclusive entries, or integration of art and fashion.

In this article we rank the top Concours d’Elegance globally, exploring their stories and what makes them stand out in the automotive world.  You may agree or disagree with the list and we do welcome your comments!

by Bernard Martin

by Bernard Martin

Concours d'Elegance, which translates to "Competition of Elegance," originated in 17th-century France as a parade of horse-drawn carriages among the aristocracy. These events were held in parks and gardens, where wealthy participants showcased their luxurious and ornate carriages. As the automotive era began in the early 20th century, these competitions evolved into exhibitions of high-end automobiles, celebrating their craftsmanship, design, and innovation.

Concours d’Élégance de Dinard
The modern Concours d’Elegance began in the 1920s, blending automotive design with high fashion in sophisticated settings. The Fédération Française des Véhicules d'Époque (FFVE) recognizes the Concours d’Élégance de Dinard, held on September 4, 1921, in the chic resort town of Dinard on France’s west coast, as the first official Concours d’Elegance.

This landmark event attracted over 100 vehicles for the rally, with 30 cars competing in the Concours itself. It was not merely a showcase of luxury automobiles but also a celebration of the latest fashion trends, as prominent personalities from the arts, industry, and fashion sectors, including André Citroën, founder of the Citroën automobile company, gathered to enjoy the spectacle. The glamorous seaside resort provided a fitting backdrop for this marriage of style and innovation, setting the tone for the elegant and exclusive Concours events that followed.

Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este
One of the earliest examples of a Concours d’Elegance is the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, originally known as the Coppa d'Oro Villa d'Este. This prestigious international competition for motor cars was first held on September 1, 1929, just two months before the Wall Street Crash. It was a collaborative effort by the Automobile Club of Como, the Grand Hotel Villa d'Este, and the Comitato di Cura di Como, taking place at the opulent Villa d’Este hotel on Lake Como, Italy.

From its inception, the event became a celebrated showcase of elegance and cutting-edge automotive technology, attracting affluent collectors, designers, and manufacturers. After a hiatus of several decades, the Concorso was revived in 2009, with the BMW Group partnering with the Villa d’Este hotel to organize the event. Since then, it has continued to draw international attention and acclaim, solidifying its place as one of the most distinguished automotive exhibitions in the world.

The Three Pillars of a Concours d’Elegance
Not only did automakers and coachbuilders use the Concours d’Elegance as a prestigious platform to debut and promote their latest models, but fashion houses seized the opportunity to showcase their designs, often creating ensembles that complemented the cars on display. These events became a theatrical blend of artistry and innovation, where automobiles and haute couture were inextricably linked. To elevate the glamour, renowned stars and socialites were invited to present the cars, embodying the sophistication of both the vehicles and the fashion.

A Concours d’Elegance brought together the “three Cs”

• Constructor - the carmaker
• Carrossier - the coachbuilder
• Couturier - the fashion designer

Each contributed to the spectacle, with the car’s design reflecting modern engineering and style, the coachwork highlighting craftsmanship and creativity, and the attire emphasizing elegance and trend-setting fashion. These synergies elevated the Concours beyond a mere car show, transforming it into an immersive celebration of luxury, design, and cultural refinement. It was a place where cutting-edge automotive innovation met the artistry of bespoke tailoring, creating an aspirational lifestyle that continues to define the spirit of Concours events today.

Post-World War II, the focus shifted to showcasing restored vintage and classic cars, emphasizing preservation and historical significance. Today, these events are prestigious gatherings of automotive connoisseurs, blending art, luxury, and heritage.

The partnership between luxury resorts and Concours d’Elegance events has been a defining factor in elevating these exhibitions to global prominence. Two of the most renowned examples--Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance—demonstrate how these collaborations blend breathtaking settings with unmatched elegance and refinement.

Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance
The Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance began in 1950 as a complement to the Pebble Beach Road Races, an event aimed at showcasing post-war automobiles. Organized by the Del Monte Properties Company, which owned the Pebble Beach Resort, the Concours quickly became synonymous with sophistication, held on the iconic 18th fairway of the Pebble Beach Golf Links.

Over time, the event expanded to feature immaculately restored vintage and classic cars, drawing elite collectors and enthusiasts from around the world. The seamless connection between the event and the Pebble Beach Resort remains central to its prestige, offering participants and spectators an experience that merges automotive artistry with the natural beauty of the California coastline.

Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance
Similarly, the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, founded in 1996, owes its success to a strategic partnership with The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island. When the resort approached Bill Warner, a seasoned automotive photographer and enthusiast, the vision was clear: create a premier event that would position Amelia Island as a luxury destination. Warner delivered by blending motorsports history with the charm of rare and exotic automobiles. The Ritz-Carlton’s lush oceanfront lawns provided an exquisite backdrop, and its dedication to providing a world-class experience became integral to the Concours’ rise to global acclaim. This collaboration highlights how a resort’s elegance and hospitality enhance the overall prestige of a Concours.

The bottom line: Top-tier Concours d’Elegance thrive on their ability to integrate luxury, art, and history within a resort setting. The venues provide more than just scenic beauty; they create a framework of exclusivity that attracts the world’s most discerning collectors and connoisseurs. By incorporating elements of high fashion, fine dining, and cultural sophistication, these events elevate themselves beyond automotive exhibitions, offering a glimpse into an aspirational lifestyle.

This synergy of resort partnerships, artistry, and heritage is what sets the most prestigious Concours apart, making them not only celebrations of automotive excellence but also sophisticated cultural events.

Concours d’Elegance events have evolved into more than just exhibitions of rare and exquisite automobiles; they are immersive experiences that celebrate the intersection of art, design, and luxury.

From the historical significance of Villa d’Este and Pebble Beach to the innovation of modern events like Chantilly and Audrain Newport, each Concours brings a unique blend of heritage and contemporary sophistication.

As these prestigious gatherings continue to inspire automotive enthusiasts worldwide, they remain a testament to the enduring allure of elegance, craftsmanship, and cultural refinement in the world of classic and modern automobiles.

by Bernard Martin

The Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix (PVGP) is revving up excitement with the announcement of its "Evening of Speed" scheduled for Friday, August 2, 2024. This exclusive event marks a vibrant prelude to the weekend's racing festivities, drawing together PVGP race drivers, their crews, VIPs, and a select number of ticketed guests.

The PVGP Driver Reception, traditionally held at Orr's Jewelry Store on Forbes Avenue, will transition to the elegant Frick Fine Arts Building on the University of Pittsburgh campus. With limited tickets available at $85 each, this event offers a rare opportunity to mingle with racers and enthusiasts in a historic setting.

The day begins at 4:00 PM with the iconic GT40 race car taking pride of place on the Frick's front lawn, highlighting the same location where the Grand Prix hosted its inaugural car show in 1984. By 4:30 PM, Flagstaff Hill's gates will open for parking, setting the stage for a 5:00 PM parade of drivers and their vintage machines.

This parade will begin at the PVGP paddock, winding around the track, over the Panther Hollow Bridge, and finishing at the Frick Fine Arts Building, weaving a path past the Ragtime Racers and Vintage Indy Displays in front of Phipps Conservatory.

From 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM, Phipps becomes the center for interaction, hosting a meet and greet with the Ragtime Racers and Vintage Indy participants. The Frick Fine Arts Building, a landmark since its 1965 opening and dedicated to the memory of Henry Clay Frick by his daughter Helen Clay Frick, will offer guests a chance to enjoy its art and architectural marvels, including replicas of Florentine Renaissance artworks.

The event will feature a 5:30 PM interview session in the Schenley Plaza Tent with University Formula SAE team students, including Panther Racing, Carnegie Mellon Racing, and Penn State's Nittany Racing. They will discuss their cutting-edge developments in EV-powered race cars alongside noted automotive engineers and designers Kip Wasenko and Brian Willis. (more details  below)

The highlight of the evening, the "Legends of Schenley" Awards Presentation, is set for 6:00 PM, followed by remarks from this year's Grand Marshal, Bill Warner. A strolling dinner commences at 6:15 PM, allowing guests to relax and engage further in this unique setting.

Bill Warner will captivate the audience again at 7:00 PM with his talk on "Motorsports Photography Then and Now," appealing especially to photography aficionados and social media enthusiasts. The vintage race cars will make their return to the paddock by 8:30 PM, ensuring they are securely in place before sunset.
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The "Evening of Speed" is more than an event; it's a celebration of automotive history, innovation, and the enduring spirit of the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix, promising an unforgettable start to "The Vintage" weekend of vintage racing and car shows at Schenley Park.

Bill Warner is a distinguished figure in the automotive world, renowned for his deep-rooted passion and significant contributions to car culture. As the founder of the Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance, one of the most prestigious car shows in the United States, Warner has established himself as a prominent advocate for automotive history and preservation. His expertise extends beyond organizing elite automotive events; he is also a respected automotive photographer and journalist, whose work has graced the pages of major publications and captivated audiences worldwide.

With a career spanning several decades, Warner has developed an extensive network within the automotive industry, from collectors and restorers to designers and racers. His knowledge of automotive history is profound, and his personal collection includes some of the rarest and most unique vehicles. Warner's contributions to the automotive community have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, reflecting his influence and commitment to the celebration of automotive heritage.
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In 2024, Bill Warner will serve as the Grand Marshal for the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix (PVGP), an honor that acknowledges his lifelong dedication to the automotive industry. His role at the PVGP will not only highlight his storied career but also underscore his ongoing influence in shaping automotive culture and enthusiasm. Warner's presence as Grand Marshal is expected to bring a unique depth of knowledge and passion to the event, making it a memorable experience for participants and spectators alike

Kip Wasneko has made a remarkable impact as the Head of Design at General Motors, especially noted for his significant achievements in revitalizing the Cadillac brand. One of his most notable contributions was leading the design team that introduced the acclaimed Cadillac V-Series, a lineup that successfully fused luxury with high performance, catering to a new era of automotive enthusiasts. This series not only enhanced Cadillac's market presence but also redefined its identity as a competitor in luxury performance vehicles.

Wasneko's leadership was crucial in the development of groundbreaking design concepts that pushed the boundaries of innovation and sustainability within the automotive industry. Under his direction, the team unveiled the Cadillac Lyriq, an all-electric SUV that marked Cadillac’s ambitious step towards electrification, showcasing his commitment to forward-thinking automotive solutions.

Furthermore, Wasneko played a pivotal role in Cadillac's return to racing, overseeing the design and development of the Cadillac DPi-V.R race car. This vehicle made a significant mark in endurance racing, participating in prestigious races like the 24 Hours of Daytona. This move not only highlighted Cadillac's engineering capabilities but also its resurgence as a symbol of American ingenuity and competitive spirit in the racing world.

These milestones under Wasneko's guidance have not only solidified GM's standing in the global automotive industry but also reinstated Cadillac as a beacon of luxury, innovation, and performance.

Brian Dean Willis is a prominent figure in the automotive and aerospace engineering sectors, currently serving as the Owner, CEO, and Chief Engineer at Leap Racing in Suwanee, Georgia. His company specializes in a variety of engineering design and development tasks, including aerodynamics for sports prototypes, race car development, and the design of limited production street cars. With a background rich in high-level engineering projects, Willis has made substantial contributions across multiple disciplines, from aerospace to automotive.

Before founding Leap Racing, Willis was the Vice President of Engineering at Panoz Cars, Elan Technologies, and DeltaWing Technologies Group, where he directed the engineering efforts across various divisions and spearheaded the design of an all-electric race car for the Le Mans-Garage 56 initiative. His leadership in this role was marked by his oversight of significant projects, including the design of several electric vehicles and advanced racing cars.

Willis’s expertise in vehicle dynamics and aerodynamics was further honed during his tenure as Director of Technical Services at Multimatic Inc., where he was the Chief Designer for the 2016 Ford GT that won its category at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. His career also includes impactful roles in racing teams and engineering firms like Team Goh Racing, where he contributed to a Le Mans victory, and Williams Grand Prix Engineering, where he helped design a Le Mans winning LMP prototype sports racing car.
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With educational credentials that include Master’s degrees in Mechanical and Composites Engineering from MIT and a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering from Texas A&M University, Willis’s profound technical knowledge and innovative approach have been instrumental in driving advancements in both racing performance and vehicle design. His career is marked by a commitment to pushing the boundaries of engineering to achieve superior performance and efficiency in high-stakes environments.