The La Jolla Concours d’Elegance is set to return to the shores of La Jolla from Friday, April 19 to Sunday, April 21. Now in its 18th year, the Concours looks back on its remarkable journey from a modest local car show to an internationally recognized automotive event, standing as a testament to the vision, dedication, and passion of the La Jolla community.

The La Jolla Concours d’Elegance began as a dream in 2003, conceptualized by three La Jolla business owners, Michel Ullman, Terry Underwood, and Yvette Marcum. Their initial discussion at Georges at The Cove laid the foundation for an event that would showcase the beauty of La Jolla, particularly during the quieter winter months. With the support of the merchant’s association at the time, Promote La Jolla, and a team of passionate members including Tiffany Share, Deborah Marengo, Bob Meigs, Steve Edelstein, Bill Price, and Greg Rizzi, the dream swiftly turned into reality.

January 2004 marked the inaugural La Jolla Motor Car Classic, held at Ellen Browning Scripps Park, drawing approximately 50 hot rods, antique automobiles, and classic cars from local collectors. Recognizing the event’s potential, the committee, with the expertise of all-star event promoter Laurel McFarlane of McFarlane Promotions, sought to elevate it to a Concours-quality show.

Spring 2004 was a turning point, with La Jolla car aficionados Chuck Spielman and Neal Wichard joining forces to attract a national audience of car collectors, seeing the potential of the picturesque Ellen Browning Scripps Park to rival some of the best Concours locations in the world. Their collaboration with fellow collectors, including Alan Taylor, Cy Conrad, and Dave Darwin set new standards for the event and expanded its appeal.

In 2007, the event evolved into a weekend-long extravaganza, thanks to Dave Darwin’s vision. The same year marked the beginning of the La Jolla Concours’ philanthropic journey, with the Monarch School being its first charitable beneficiary, a tradition that expanded to support multiple local charities.

The La Jolla Historical Society stepped in to underwrite the event in 2009, aligning the Concours with the Society’s mission to preserve La Jolla’s history. Under Trip Bennett’s leadership as LJMCC chairman, the event continued to thrive.

Michael Dorvillier’s involvement in 2010 brought new heights to the event, solidifying its status as a top collector car show. In 2012, Dorvillier rebranded the event as the La Jolla Concours d’Elegance, transforming it into a three-day celebration of automotive history and elegance.

“Upon joining the Concours committee, I recognized the potential to elevate the La Jolla Motor Car Classic into a premier global automotive event,” Dorvillier said. “The unique combination of location, local charm, and community engagement had the ingredients to transform it into not just a world-class event but a world-class experience. This distinctive blend is what differentiates the La Jolla Concours and has been instrumental in its evolution into the esteemed event it is today.”

In 2022, Dorviller made a strategic move by appointing Robert F. Kerner as his co-chair, entrusting him with the responsibility of overseeing the car sourcing strategy. Since then, these two visionary chairmen have been at the forefront of the La Jolla Concours, continuously pushing boundaries and introducing innovative concepts to elevate the event’s prestige and uniqueness year after year.

Today, the La Jolla Concours d’Elegance stands as a testament to the enduring passion for automotive excellence and community spirit. Its blend of world-class exhibitions and a public car show pays homage to its humble beginnings while celebrating the evolution of the automobile.

“The Concours is the result of a collaborative effort involving a 24-person committee and 250 dedicated volunteers who contribute their time and passion annually,” Dorvillier said. “In 2023, the event generated significant economic impact, with attendees booking 8,000 hotel room nights and spending substantially in La Jolla’s local businesses. The La Jolla Concours not only unites the La Jolla community but also provides substantial benefits to the entire region over this celebrated weekend.”

This year’s La Jolla Concours theme, celebrating the Roaring 20s and the Glamorous 30s, promises to infuse the event with a sense of yesteryear nostalgia and timeless elegance. The theme serves as an artistic backdrop that will curate a showcase of automobiles from this extraordinary era. From sleek Art Deco designs to the powerful engines found within, these vehicles will transport spectators back to a time of innovation, luxury, and boundless enthusiasm for automotive craftsmanship.

The La Jolla Concours d’Elegance 2024 is guided by:

Michael Dorvillier – co-chairman

As a registered principal and financial advisor with Symbio Financial Partners and LPL Financial, Michael Dorvillier brings a unique blend of financial expertise and passion for antique cars. Born and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico, he has been a pivotal force in La Jolla Concours d’Elegance, committed to its ongoing success.

Robert Kerner – co-chairman, chair of Concours Car Selection Committee

An insurance risk manager to ultra-high-net-worth families, Robert Kerner is an expert in collector car insurance and a devoted co-chairman and chair of Concours Car Selection Committee. His name graces the Petersen Automotive Museum wall for substantial contributions, and his influence extends through his practice at Marsh McLennan Agency.

Laurel McFarlane – event producer

With over two decades of experience, Laurel McFarlane is a top event planner in San Diego and the founder of McFarlane Promotions and the San Diego Event Coalition. Her expertise ensures a seamless execution of La Jolla Concours d’Elegance, transforming it into a sophisticated and memorable experience.

Claudette and William Berwin – co-chairs

Claudette, a classic car aficionado, and William, a La Jolla native, have jointly led as co-chairs of the Tour d’Elegance since 2022. Claudette’s extensive track record includes serving as a chase car for the Italian Mille Miglia, attending the Monte Carlo Grand Prix, and racing Formula Fords, Mercedes Benzs, and BMWs on multiple tracks. William’s community service, including roles in the Bird Rock Community Council and the La Jolla Planning Committee, adds a local touch to La Jolla Concours d’Elegance’s leadership.

For more information about the event, visit https://lajollaconcours.com.

Photo by La Jolla Concours d’Elegance