Iron Mike Rally Set To Drive 2013 Pinehurst Concours d'Elegance

Company press release.

- Pinehurst-to-Fort Bragg Event To Bring New Experience To Concours Entrants and Military -

A distinctive experiential twist will await entrants of the 2013 Pinehurst Concours d'Elegance, the 'Iron Mike Rally.' This road rally, taking place on Friday, May 3, 2013, will include a picturesque route from the Pinehurst Resort to Fort Bragg, a show for the military and their families on the legendary Main Post Parade Field, as well as interactive experiences for all participants.

Entrants who take part in the Iron Mike Rally will receive extra consideration as their vehicles undergo the judging process at the inaugural Pinehurst Concours d'Elegance, on Sunday, May 5, 2013.

The Iron Mike Rally is named after the iconic 'Iron Mike' statue, located near Fort Bragg headquarters, that represents all paratroopers, past, present and future. Fort Bragg is home of the United States Army Airborne and Special Operations Forces and is one of the largest military complexes in the world, with approximately 57,000 military personnel, 11,000 civilian employees and 23,000 family members on site.

Accompanied by police and military escorts, rally participants will drive the approximately 35-mile route from Pinehurst Resort, winding through the towns of Pinehurst and Southern Pines, before entering the Longstreet Gate of Fort Bragg. Participants will then arrive at the heart of the base, wind around the traffic circle at the Iron Mike statue and then enter the Main Post Parade Field. The massive Parade Field has hosted celebrations and ceremonies since World War I, including those involving the President of the United States and foreign heads of state.

Once the vehicles are parked, the Parade Field will open to military members and their families, who will have the opportunity to meet and interface with the Concours vehicle owners and drivers, and learn about the history and heritage of some of the world's most iconic vehicles. At the same time, the Concours participants will be introduced to some of our nation's greatest heroes, walking among and enjoying hands-on interaction with military displays and exhibits.

A special award – the 'Soldier's Choice' – will be given to the vehicle with the most votes by military guests attending the event.

'The Iron Mike Rally accomplishes two goals,' said Dean Kessel, founder and CEO of the Pinehurst Concours d'Elegance. 'First it provides an exciting route for our entrants to exercise their cars and obtain an advantage at Sunday's Concours, but secondly – and more importantly – it's a way for the entrants to experience and interact with some of our nation's finest men, women and families.'

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Support for the Iron Mike Rally and all of the Pinehurst Concours d'Elegance events at Fort Bragg has been substantial, as opportunities have arisen to enhance the entrant and attendee experience.

'We are fortunate to have this opportunity provided for our soldiers and their families and look forward to being a part of the Iron Mike Rally,' said Tommy Bolton, Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army. 'There are many automotive enthusiast on the Ft. Bragg complex who will enjoy seeing the cars and meeting the entrants, and this will be a wonderful opportunity to share the story of the American Soldier and Fort Bragg with these car owners and drivers and others present.'

'There is plenty of valued benefit for all participants to share,' Bolton continued. 'This is indeed going to be a very special event.'

The Next Stop on the Road to Pinehurst – A Call For Entrants

Entries are now being accepted for the 2013 Pinehurst Concours d'Elegance via the 'Entrants' tab on the event's website.

'We have received numerous inquires regarding entering the event from major collections and museums,' said Brian Barr, Director of Events, Pinehurst Concours d'Elegance. 'We are already considering several submissions from owners of some very important cars and motorcycles, and we will continue our entrance procedure over the next six months.'

A current list of vehicles entered into the Pinehurst Concours d'Elegance will be released on the event website by mid-fall.

Tickets for the 2013 Pinehurst Concours d'Elegance and all events scheduled surrounding the concours week will be on sale no later than October 1, 2012. Advance information can be obtained by clicking on the 'Ticket' tab on the event website.