A Hollywood touch for the 2018 CBA Africa Concours dElegance

Plans for an exhilarating the 2018 CBA Africa Concours d’Elegance are on top gear, with the September 30 event already attracting 36 cars.

Among them, will be machines appearing for the first time at the Nairobi Racecourse, a 1937 Nash and a 1952 Chevrolet Impala convertible which are being prepared by Magdi Riad for the classiest event on the Kenya Motorsport calendar.

The 2018 Concours will be the 48th in the annual series held by the Alfa Romeo Owners Club.

Magdi’s Nash was made in the United States by a company which is no longer in operation, thus the two door coupe which was bought recently is a rarity. The car is now in a derelict state requiring a complete rebuild.

According to Magdi, both the Nash and the Chevrolet Impala convertible were once owned by William Holden, the famous Hollywood star and founder of the Mount Kenya Safari Club.

During Holden’s involvement with the club a line of luxury cottages was constructed for use by stars of the film and entertainment industries.

Apparently, the Nash and the Chevrolet Impala were used to carry rich and famous guests.

The annual Concours gives the owners of well-kept classic and vintage cars and motorcycles the opportunity to have them assessed by highly experienced judges. In addition, competitors have the chance to win the overall awards and prizes for the 20 classes which cater for all makes and types of cars, pickups, SUVs and motorcycles.

There are also awards for the participants with the best costumes and the entrants of the most elegant car and motorcycle.

Last year, Alice Githere who is based in Mombasa, competed for the first time with her 1962 Opel Rekord, and will be cruising again this year.

Among the ladies contesting the event are Jinja based Leslie Carvell with her crimson 1970 VW Beetle and Christine Omuombo who will be driving a 1968 VW Beetle on the Total Quartz inspection ramp.

Led by Gianfranco Masetto, the Vice Chairman of the Uganda Bikers Association (UBA) an impressive group of motorcycle enthusiasts will ride from Kampala to Nairobi on their big bikes for the event. Gianfranco will be pinning his hopes on his 2000 Honda Varadero which won the class for Trail and Enduro motorcycles made in 2009, or earlier at last year’s event.

Both Arthur Musasizi and James Nsubuga of the UBA will be presenting 2010 BMW Adventure bikes for assessment in the motorcycle judging ring.