Veronica Duder’s 1930 Essex Super Six claimed the top prize at the 54th Africa Concours d’Elegance, overcoming a tie with Mike Duder’s 1930 Ford Tudor by virtue of its older marque status on the log book. Both vehicles scored 278 points, with the Essex’s historical precedence securing its victory. The competition, held at Ngong Racecourse on Sunday, highlighted the enduring appeal of pre-war American classics, which dominated judging for underside, finish, and originality. Kevit Desai’s 1968 Jaguar 420 followed in third with 270 points, while Umang Patel’s 1966 Mercedes Benz 230 SL and Baldev Chager’s 1986 Nissan Silvia 200SX rounded out the top five.
The motorcycle category saw Rick Agagliate’s 1941 Indian Scout 741 triumph with 176 points, narrowly beating Dominique Antoine’s 1925 Triumph 550SD, which earned 175 points. Robert Gow, chief judge of the motorcycle category, noted the event’s diverse entries, including the 101-year-old Triumph, which showcased exceptional restoration and roadworthiness. Antoine’s Triumph, a rare survivor, underscored the event’s focus on preserving automotive heritage. The competition featured 35 entries, with several notable absences, but maintained its reputation for celebrating vintage and modern machines alike.
Utility vehicles dominated several classes, with Cloth My Ride (EAT) claiming first place in Class 1 for post-1980 models with a 1999 Land Rover Defender scoring 189 points. James Nguo’s 1996 Mercedes Benz 290GD finished second with 181 points, while Kelvin Leiyan’s 1992 Toyota Land Cruiser and Joshua Bily’s 1991 Peugeot 504 Pick Up secured third and fourth. In Class 2 for 1971–1980 utilities, Chirag Soni’s 1972 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ55 edged out Don Owino’s 1979 Range Rover Classic by two points, with 200 to 198 respectively.
Class 3 for pre-1970 utilities highlighted Kenya’s oldest workhorses, with Martin Sharrif Butt’s 1957 Chevrolet 3100 taking top honors. Reid Arensen’s 1959 Land Rover Series II placed second, while Benson Muli’s 1970 Volkswagen Kombi Westfalia and Bernd Trompell’s 1968 Land Rover Series IIA completed the top four. Kofi Okudzeto’s 1965 Land Rover Series IIA and 1966 Willys Jeep, along with Tumaini Muthiga’s 1969 Peugeot 404 Pick Up, added historical depth to the class.
Touring car categories saw Volkswagen Beetles dominate, with Elizabeth & Dereck Dames’ 1968 Beetle earning 228 points in Class 5. Jane Chemngorem’s 1960 Karmann Ghia and Capt Mugo Keiyoro’s 1972 Beetle followed with 222 and 221 points. In Class 6 for 1,501cc–1,700cc models, Paul Chemngorem’s 1975 Toyota Celica narrowly beat Avraj Singh’s 1980 Alfa Romeo Sud Sprint, scoring 222 to 220. Kelvin Leiyan’s 1979 Mitsubishi Gallant rounded out the top three.
Baldev Chager’s 1986 Nissan Silvia 200SX, a restored ex-works rally car once driven by Jayant Shah, became a standout entry in Class 13. Chager, who has owned the vehicle for 18 years, described the 11-year restoration as a labor of love, emphasizing its historical ties to the 1990 WRC Safari Rally, which was held at Ngong Racecourse. The car’s 1990 color scheme, matching Shah’s original livery, highlighted its nostalgic significance.
The event also featured international participation, including Pearl Bikes Africa from Uganda, and a replica of the Racing Point Formula 1 car sponsored by SportPesa in 2019. The Concours d’Elegance, now in its 54th edition, continues to celebrate Kenya’s motoring legacy, blending vintage and modern classics in a showcase of craftsmanship, originality, and roadworthiness. With entries spanning 101 years, the competition reaffirms that true automotive artistry transcends time.
The results underscored the dedication of collectors and restorers, with meticulous attention to detail evident across all categories. From the 1925 Triumph 550SD to the 1999 Land Rover Defender, each vehicle reflected a commitment to preserving automotive history. The event’s return to Ngong Racecourse, a venue steeped in motorsport tradition, further emphasized its role as a cultural and historical landmark.
Public interest in the Concours d’Elegance remains high, with attendees and participants alike drawn to its blend of nostalgia and technical excellence. The competition’s emphasis on originality and restoration has inspired a new generation of enthusiasts to appreciate the craftsmanship of past eras. As the event continues to evolve, it maintains its core mission of honoring Kenya’s rich motoring heritage.
The 54th Africa Concours d’Elegance concluded with a celebration of automotive diversity, from pre-war classics to modern sports cars. The competition not only recognized outstanding restorations but also highlighted the enduring passion for vehicles that have shaped Kenya’s automotive landscape. With its focus on quality, history, and innovation, the event remains a cornerstone of the country’s motorsport culture.