The Royal Palace ‘t Loo in Apeldoorn, surrounded by its gardens and woods, was once the Dutch Royal Family’s favourite place. In 1984 it became a Museum open to the public and it’s an outstanding venue for an event like the Concourse d’Élegance. A national competition is held on Saturday and on Sunday there’s the International event.

At 09:00 the gates were open to the public with a Press Conference at 10:00, followed by the official opening. There was all kind of action, like a display by Jaguar in the Royal Stables and in the evening a black-tie, invitation-only Grand Gala Dinner. For the masses there were lifestyle and fashion exhibitors, including shows and magnificent styled tents and pretty promotional ladies. Of course you could buy all kind of snacks and drinks and ice-creams for the kids, so there was something for everyone.

For the first time in the event’s five year history there was a “Classic Sprint”, undoubtedly taking a lesson from the Goodwood Festival of Speed. This “Vredestein Classic Sprint” was held on the “Koningslaan” (Kings Lane) and the objective was to drive a distance of approx. 100 meters as fast as possible. It was a good idea to add the sprint, because it attracted many spectators. Unfortunately it was a bit dark under the old trees, but the runs were very spectacular, especially the Valpi Cadillac V16 entered by Jerry Bootsma. There were also other makes like BMW, Bentley, Alvis and MG. Nope… no Ferraris… and now I come to that… it was very disappointing to see that only four Ferraris were participating. In the past is has been different and I can remember the 500 Superfast that was the winner of its class and of the entire Concourse. Ah well…, perhaps next year some special Ferraris will participate (are you there Ray? – Ed).

On Saturday the National prize giving was the highlight, whereas on Sunday it was the turn of the International competitors. With so few Ferraris participating, you won’t be surprised if I tell you that no Ferrari won. All together there were 12 classes and an additional prize for “Best of Show”, which was won by Fiat V8 “Demon Rouge” 1952, by Michelotti, a car from the Louwman Collection which can be seen in the Museum in Raamsdonkveer.

There were some really amazing cars, but my favourite was the Fiat V8. Next, I think the Bertone Masterpieces showed some very special designs, but with so many makes it’s just not possible to mention them all, both in the event and in the car park!

All in all, again a well organized event with many wonderul cars, but too few Ferraris! Most of the spectators were thrilled by seeing so many beauties and as far as I could tell everybody was satisfied. I hope the sprint is coming back next year - the event is, because the sponsors confirmed it.

For all the class winners click here.

© Henk J. Brouwer - 2004

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