The Keeneland Concours d’Elegance 2012 will be held Saturday, July 21st on the grounds of the historic Keeneland Race Course in Lexington, Kentucky. The 9th annual event will feature a field of more than 150 classic automobiles and motorcycles.
This year’s event will feature Packard, divided into pre-war and post-war classes, in addition to the Motorcycle Preservation Class and the Racing Class with historic NASCAR racers. Collectors will compete for trophies in 18 classes of classic, vintage and exotic autos and motorcycles.
“We’re thrilled with the support we have received from Lexington and the surrounding area as more
and more people visit the show and surrounding events each year,” said Tom Jones, Chairman of the
Keeneland Concours d’Elegance. “We expect an even bigger year with our 2012 show.”
Featured marque Packard cars were manufactured from 1899 to 1958 in Detroit and South Bend, Indian. Packards were the top luxury cars of their day, owned by celebrities and captains of industry. Packards introduced many innovations, including the first production 12-cylinder engine and the first air conditioning in a passenger car.
In addition to Packards, other collectible cars expected to be on display include:
- 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air convertible with a rain-sensing top and a cigarette-ash evacuation system.
- Muntz Jet sports car designed to compete with the early Corvettes.
- 1948 Nash Ambassador with a conditioned air system.
In addition to the Concours d’Elegance, events include the Concours Preview Party and Maserati Mingle, June 15; Bourbon Tour, July 19; Hangar Bash, July 20; Car Club Paddock, Silent Auction, Sports Car Raffle and Gear Down Party July 21; and the Tour d’Elegance, July 22.
The Keeneland Concours d’Elegance is a 501(c)(3) organization and all proceeds support Kentucky Children’s Hospital, which serves children’s healthcare needs throughout Central Kentucky.
For more information, visit www.keenelandconcours.com, call 859-422-3329.
[Source: Keeneland Concours; photo credit: Gary Kessler]
