FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 20, 2008
Horsepower of another kind attracts a national audience to Keeneland
during fifth annual Concours d'Elegance
LEXINGTON, KY—Keeneland is widely known for its Thoroughbred horsepower. But a
different kind of horsepower is making quite a name for itself on the grounds of the legendary race course.
One hundred extravagant automobiles will be showcased on the historic horse racing grounds
of Keeneland, drawing car enthusiasts from around the country to the fifth annual
Concours d'Elegance, July 17-20, 2008.
Concours d’Elegance, a “gathering of elegance,” originated in Paris during the 1920s. The
Concours quickly became not only an event for automobile manufacturers to parade the latest
edition of extravagant automobiles, but also a spot for fashion designers to showcase the latest styles.
This year's event will feature Cadillac as the guest marque, and an historic display from the
General Motors Heritage Collection. As in previous years, 100 nationally and internationally acclaimed
Concours automobiles will be judged to receive the coveted trophys sponsored by horse farms throughout
the region. Cars exhibited at the event fall into one of 15 judged categories, a new class this year
is for vintage motorcycles..
Although this four-day event is best known for the Saturday Concours d’Elegance and its magnificent display
of automobiles, additional events and activities provide visitors and participants a taste of Kentucky's art, culture
and elegance. Proceeds from the Keeneland Concours benefit the Kentucky Children’s Hospital.
“It is our hope and our goal that the Concours d’Elegance provides everyone with a unique experience—a mix of art,
flair, design, sounds and—of course—a cause,” said event chairman Tom Jones. “There are many reasons to be
excited about the 2008 Concours, and we are looking forward to hosting another outstanding weekend in the Bluegrass.”
Event activities include:
Bourbon Tour (Thursday, July 17)
Exclusive tour of a renowned distillery conducted by the master distiller complete with bourbon sampling from select barrels.
A catered lunch and round-table discussion with the experts will give participants an insiders' view of the history
and production of Kentucky bourbon.
(Registration limited.)
Black Tie Gala (Friday, July 18)
Cocktails, fine dining and dancing in the private dinding rooms of Keeneland Race Course. This "Cadillac of Galas"
will overlook the historic track and paddock. Jay Flippin's Orchestra will provide the music for this "Great Gatsby" themed party.
Concours d’Elegance (Saturday, July 19) 9 a.m.– 4:30 p.m.
Concours automobiles, Heritage Collection display, and hundreds of cars in the
Car Club Paddock. Also included will be automotive art, a silent auction, and unique shopping.
($15/person; under 12 free. Collector’s event program/$10)
Hangar Bash (Saturday evening, July 19)
Casual setting for food, drink and music.Concours automobiles and motorcycles will share the spotlight with
modern and vintage airplanes parked on the tarmac of the Aviation Museum of Kentucky. Special event will
showcase a WWII bomber fly-over.
Tour d’Elegance (Sunday, July 20)
A drive through the beautiful Bluegrass countryside with a stop at a legendary horse farm and a
visit to Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill for a catered lunch and leisurely walking tour of the restored
1800's Shaker Settlement.
($200 per car with 2 people, $75 each additional passenger)
Today, there are approximately 40 Concours events throughout the country, and Lexington, Kentucky,
is fortunate to be the home to the Keeneland Concours d’Elegance.
For more information on the Keeneland Concours d’Elegance, please visit www.keenelandconcours.com