The inaugural Desert Classic Concours d'Elegance, held March 1, 2008 on the lush grounds and manicured fairways of the exclusive O'Donnell Golf Club in the heart of Palm Springs, continues the tradition that Palm Springs has long held with exotic automobiles, including the first road race in Southern California in 1950. Considered the Golden Era of road racing, these were unparalleled social events, with racers and spectators enjoying the nightlife offered by the legendary clubs and hotels of Palm Springs.

More than 3000 people attended The Desert Classic Concours d'Elegance at the O'Donnell Golf Course March 1. More than 100 exquisite automobiles exhibited, most competing for 36 awards judged by automotive authorities, including Senior Judge Bill Krause, legendary sports car driver. Ed Justice Jr., Voice of Road and Track Speed Radio and President of Justice Brothers Inc. served as Co-Master of Ceremonies. Michael Lynch, author, founder of the Carmel Concours with longtime involvement in the Pebble Beach and The Quail Show, was the other Co-Master of Ceremonies. General Richard Wilmot (US Army ret.) served as Grand Marshall.

The featured marque of this year's Concours was Maserati. The event spotlighted sports racing cars including many Ferraris and Maseratis. Both European and American classics were represented by the finest automobile makers. Interesting thematic Corrals, as well as the first Ferrari ever built, Chassis Number 01C, making its first-ever western United States appearance, were also draws to this year's event that received international attention.

The Desert Classic Concours d'Elegance raised money for local non-profit organizations: Lucy Curci Cancer Center, College of the Desert, Animal Samaritans and Angel Light Academy's Leadership Training Institute.

The next Desert Classic Concours d'Elegance is set for Sunday, March 1, 2009. For more information call (760)766-2824 or go to www.DesertConcours.com.

Best of Show: 1936 Delahaye 135 Competition, Ken & Ann Smith
Best Maserati: 1956 Maserati A6G/54 Berlinetta Zagato, John Bookout
Best European Coach Built: 1956 Maserati A6G/54 Berlinetta Zagato, John Bookout
Best American Coach Built: 1936 Packard 120 LeBaron, Crevier Classic Cars
Best Pre-War: 1930 Franklin Speedster, Kendall Rosemeyer
Best Preserved Original: 1968 Maserati Mexico, Doug Magnon
Most Authentic Restoration: Alfa Romeo 6C2500SS Villa D'Este, Symbolic Motor Cars
Best 50s Competition Car: Ferrari 375MM, Tom Shaughnessy
People's Choice: 1936 Delahaye 135 Competition, Ken & Ann Smith
Longest Distance: 1956 Maserati A6G/54 Berlinetta Zagato, John Bookout from Houston, Texas

C1 - Maserati
1st Place: 1956 Maserati A6G/54 Berlinetta Zagato, John Bookout
2nd Place: 1956 Maserati A6G 2000 Alamano Body Coupe, Mathew and Jonathan Segal
3rd Place: 1949 Maserati A6-1500, Bill Noon