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Ault Park Concours d'Elegance

Overview

Each year we try to travel as many times as we can to various Concours d'Elegances, because they always offer a diverse and interesting selection of vehicles. The 2006 Cincinnati Concours d'Elegance was no exception. This was our first time covering this annual show, but not the first time for Concept Carz.

When you compare this show to a manufacturer or any other typical car show, you will notice one major difference; every car is different in its own way. If you're lucky enough to find two cars within the same model and year, they usually have a distinct characteristic that will set it apart from all the others, making the show not only exciting for enthusiasts, but also educational.

The looming topic for this event would definitely be the weather. The non-stop rain that started from the moment we entered Ohio, didn't leave an optimistic impression in our minds. It literally poured for hours and hours and the temperature plummeted to an unseasonably low. But, I guess many crossed fingers made the difference, and our wish of perfect weather was granted. On our way to Ault Park, the rain cleared and didn't make an appearance until after we left.

Kudos to the staff and volunteers from the Arthritis Foundation, sponsor of the Concours for being so attentive to the press. When we arrived, hours before the show officially began, we were greeted and personally escorted into the show and given personal attention that has been unmatched by any other show we've attended. We were given printed maps and materials and extended an option for personal directions to anything that we were unable to locate.

Despite the weather and the extra time to dry the cars, the Concours lifted off right at 10:00 a.m. with all of the much anticipated marque cars making their appearance. If you happened to get there early, as we did, you might have even been able to watch the guests of honor in motion.

The 2006 featured marque vehicles were the Italian beauties, with Italian design and coachwork. The cars were grouped in classes by era and some by their nationality. The Asian collection was a small selection of incredible cars that featured Toyota and other various imports through 1980.

The owners were more than willing to share stories, point out highlights of their vehicles and even give additional show suggestions despite the mystique and high price tag of their companion. We were impressed at how un-jaded and exceptionally friendly this elite group was.

Sarah's personal favorite was the Berkley. The red racer only weighed 600 pounds and was in perfect working order with its chain driven transmission lovingly restored. It had the capacity to reach speeds matching the golf cart that escorted it through the damp grass to its place on the lawn but is unrivaled in its charm. It began its life overseas in London, but made its way into a Florida swamp, where it was found window deep in sand and flooded. The story of its restoration was one of heartfelt dedication by its owner, a true testament to the bond between man and machine.

Kyle's show favorite was the 1971 Ferrari Dino 246 GT. This fine sports car screams the name Ferrari. Every time you think of this Italian manufacturer, the 246 is what has been embedded into the mind of many classic exotic car enthusiasts.

After photographing impressive Ferrari's, Lamborghini's, and other rare classics, we enjoyed the event walking through the vendor's booths and of course soaking in the picturesque surroundings. The scenic backdrop provided outstanding photographs and a smiling crowd.
- Text by Kyle and Sarah

Show Field
This years Cincinnati Athritis Foundation's Annual Concours d'Elegence paid tribute to Italian Beauties - Italian Design and Coach Work. On display were rarely-seen collections of Ferraris, Alfa Romeos, Maseratis and Lamborghinis.

Also on the show field at Ault Park was a 1939 Maserati Boyle Special, 1967 Toyota 2000 GT, 1929 Stutz Series M LeBaron Town Car, 1953 OSCA MT-4, 1954 Hudson Italia, and more.

Wilbur Shaw drove the 1939 Maserati Boyle Special to two Indy 500 victories, while the Maserati MC-12, which reaches speeds of over 205 mph, was produced in 2004 as Maserati's return to the racetrack. Only 25 MC-12s were made for street use and the vehicle being featured at The Ault Park Concours d'Elegance is worth $1.7 million.

In addition to the Maseratis, this years Concours d'Elegance featured the incredibly rare GTO Ferrari, worth millions.

About The Arthritis Foundation

The Arthritis Foundation is the only national, voluntary health agency focused on improving lives through leadership in the prevention, control and cure of arthritis and related diseases -- the nation's number one cause of disability—through a commitment to research, public policy and public health. For more information about the Arthritis Foundation or the Ohio River Valley Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation, go to http://www.arthritis.org/.

Conclusion
The total amount raised benefiting the Arthritis Foundation over the 3-day weekend was $ 165,000. Total weekend attendance was 3,565.

Though the weather was slow in cooperating, the crowds and show field still assembled. Thanks to the sponsors, organizers, enthusiasts, owners, volunteers, and all who made this event the success that it was. Thanks to Kyle and Sarah for event coverage.
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