In a move to a different day and new surroundings, Concorso Italiano relocated from Laguna Seca Golf Ranch to Seaside’s Bayonet Black Horse Golf Course. We found this location much more pleasing as from here one could view Monterey Bay…and the compactness of the grounds made the whole event seem more intimate. A beautiful, sunny day made for the perfect conditions to stroll from one automobile to the next, converse with the owners and enjoy the event.
Our personal favorite this year was the newest two-seater offering from Alfa Romeo. This mid-engine car carries the designation “4C” and marks Alfa Romeo’s return to the American market. Only 1200 per year will be imported carrying a base price of $55,000.00. The fluid lines remind one of draped silk fabric more than metal, but those who have test driven this model claim it is everything that sports car enthusiasts have been desiring all in an affordable package.
Credit goes to the organizers for the work they put into event before the actual day. Pairs of judges from the event visit each entrant’s automobile and accept only the best for public viewing. The press is afforded < > and parking is close by. An excellent day trip just a short drive from the San Francisco Bay Area, Concouso Italiano is a great early August destination.
THE WINNERS THIS YEAR…
BEST OF SHOW
A 1966 Lamborghini 400 GT owned by Dr. Raphael Gabay
BEST OF MARQUE – 1ST PLACE WINNERS
1966 Lancia Fulvia (Paul Hoeschen, owner)
1954 Alfa Romeo 1900 CSS (Jow Harwich, owner)
1966 Iso/Bizzarini Bizzarini GT 5300 Strada (Michael Gulett, owner)
1973 Fiat 124 Spyder (Michael Egan, owner)
1959 Maserati 3500GT Vignale Spyder Prototy (Phil White, owner)
A custom-made, one-of-a-kind creation. Now on its third owner, it still possesses the majority of its original parts/fabrication. It is also cited as the inspiration for the later Maserati Spyders.
1961 Special Coach Ghia C6-4 (John Huggins, owner)
1970 DeTomaso Mangusta (John Middleton, owner)
1966 Lamborghini 400 GT (Dr. Raphael Gabay, owner)
1965 Ferrari 275 GTB (Tazio De Nicolo, owner)
In the Motorcycle category, a Vespa Piaggio (Joseph Deason, owner)
MASERATI CLUB – 1ST PLACE
1971 Maserati Ghibi Spider SS (Victor Preisler, owner)