This archive report was first published on 28 September 2019.
Kenya's Concours d'Elegance Afromotive edition is just around the corner, with the event set to take place on Sunday at the Ngong Racecourse. The annual competition, which has been running for 48 years, is a celebration of vintage vehicles in Kenya.
Among the participants is Dr. Kevit Desai, the Principal Secretary in the State Department of Vocational and Technical Training (TVET) in the Ministry of Education. Desai, a seasoned car enthusiast, will be bringing his updated Jaguar 420 model, which finished fifth in last year's competition.
Desai's prized vehicle, which he acquired in 1968 for Sh200,000, has undergone significant improvements over the years, including enhancements to its engine, agility, and dynamic driving power.
The event has attracted a total of 70 entries, with competitors from Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania participating in different age groups. The premium social event also provides an opportunity for mechanics and motor vehicle artisans to showcase their skills and the advancements in motor vehicle technology.
One of the notable entries is the 1970 Volkswagen pickup from the Rift Valley Technical Training Institute, which was used in the past to collect mail and supplies. Alice Githere Wahome will be representing Mombasa, driving her flame red 1962 Opel record on the Total Excellium ramp and along the judging line in front of the Nairobi Racecourse grand stand.
Anthony Wairimu of Thika will showcase his 1967 Holden in the up to 2000 cc touring car class, while Stuart Allison will represent Athi River with his 1959 MGA sports car, which was the overall winner in 1998.
"It is the largest skills competition for automotive technology. It’s very intense because those competing have to know wood work, hydraulics, pneumatics, electrical systems, mechanical systems, and tailoring skills which are used to determine the technological improvements of the different vehicle models," said Desai.
The event is organized by the Alfa Romeo Owners Club and sponsored by CBA. The classic car and motorcycles sales, which is open to machines made in 1994 or earlier, is expected to attract a large crowd.
