The thrill is back!

The Headline on the MotorTrend web site Saturday morning said it all.

“2009 Concorso Italiano Returns to Greatness”

This year was one of the best Concorso Italianos in a very long time.  The success of the event is in no small part due to those of you who had the faith in us to attend.  To you we extend a very big THANK YOU!

Many people said this year’s event reminded them of Quail Lodge in the old days. That is a very welcome comment and one we hope to live up to in the coming years.

Yes, the return to the lush lawns of Laguna Seca Golf Ranch was a big hit.  Getting in and getting out was much easier than we had projected.  The Italian car enthusiasts got what they were looking for—fun, sun, special guests, and a plethora of exotic Italian cars. 

Spectators and VIP’s were able to easily go directly to their respective parking area and enter the event with very little hassle.  Food lines moved quickly and the on–trailer deluxe restrooms were a welcome sight for those in need.

A Banner Year
From the world record gathering of 15 Ferrari 288 GTOs, to the golden anniversary celebration of DeTomaso, to the special Italian guests and the heart–warming acknowledgment by Jay Leno of Valentino Balboni’s tremendous contribution to Lamborghini, the 2009 Concorso was filled with memories.

Maserati Mexico wins Best of Show
Martin Loge of Santa Barbara, CA. brought his spectacular 1969 Maserati Mexico and took home the top prize.  Very well done Martin. For a complete list of the award winners click here.

We want to thank our sponsors for their support in making Concorso the terrific event that it was.  We also want to thank all of the vendors who offered a wide variety of fascinating products so eagerly supported by the attendees.  And we greatly appreciate the Monterey Plaza Hotel for catering the Strada Club and Balesteri Catering for the Clubhouse lunch, as well as the other food and beverage providers for making the culinary choices so delectable.  And lastly, we want to thank all of the car clubs for their support and for the enthusiasts who bring so much energy to the event.

We will be announcing our special events and guests in the coming weeks.  It has been an absolute pleasure bringing you the 24th edition of Concorso.  We look forward to bringing you the 2010 Concorso Italiano on Friday, August 13, once again at the spectacular Laguna Seca Golf Ranch.  Plan now to help us celebrate 25 years of Concorso Italiano!