Over 40 cars and motorcycles have entered the Africa Concours d’Elegance scheduled for September 29th at the Nairobi Racecourse.
The event has full Africa continental status for cars and motorcycles and has been recognised and sanctioned by the FIM-Africa since 2006.
Among the entries are the Alfa Romeo cars of Rishi Chandaria and Gurvin Bassi. Hamed Ehsani will drive a Morris Minor made in 1976 while newcomer Pablo Kengara will compete with a 1970 Fiat 500F and a 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230E.
He will be up against seasoned competitor Dr. Joseph Aluoch in his large 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 SE.
“The rush to submit entries for the classiest event indicates that there will be a full field before the deadline. I want to urge those competitors who have not submitted their entries to do so soon. This will ensure their inclusion and enable them to focus on preparing their machines,” the Africa Concours d’Elegance Secretary Lucy Mungai commented.
Entries in the motorcycle category include captain David Mwaura and Lawrence Muchilwa who will both showcase Suzuki bikes.
Gianfranco Masetto (BMW R1200 GSA) and Enzo Amato’s 2002 Honda Gold Wing, resembling a car on wheels, will represent Uganda in the category and will ride their machines from Kampala to Nairobi.
Concours event director, Peter Wanday, said: “We do not judge originality. Our judging is based on the level of preparation, the fit and finish and the cleanliness and quality of chrome and paintwork.”
“If a car or a motorcycle develops an engine problem during the event and has to be pushed along the judging line, the competitor will lose 10 points. Such a loss will greatly reduce the chances of a podium position,” said Wanday, who is also the chairman of the Alfa Romeo Owners Club.
He said: “The assessment of cars commences with the underside of the car followed by the exterior by a pair of judges, who also check the interior and boot. Dashboard, glove box, door panels, the roof lining and the seats are also scrutinised.”
Wanday explained engine check is next in line with the focus on any sign of oil, or petrol leaks, dirt underneath components like the carburettor, the condition of wiring, and the inlet and exhaust manifolds.
“Finally, there is a road safety check on the condition of tyres, the functioning of lights and the hooter.”
Among the past overall car winners are a 1928 Chevrolet, a 1934 Alvis Firefly and a Railton made in the same year.
Veronica Wroe with her 1934 Rolls Royce Boatail has also previously taken home the top trophy. Motorcycle overall winners include a 1941 Indian Scout, a 1937 Moto Guzzi, a 1922 Douglas 4HP and a 1925 DKW.
