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The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance Presented
by Mercedes-Benz to benefit Hospice Northeast Florida Roars into its Second Year, March 6-9, 1997
Amelia Island, FL (October 16, 1996) - The second invitational Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance shifts into gear March 6-9, 1997, at the resort.
The lavish event-filled weekend includes The Spirit of Life Golf Tournament, A Veuve Clicquot Champagne Maker's Dinner, a black-tie optional gala dinner honoring Phil Hill with live and silent auctions, The Concours d'Elegance, the Mode du Concours Runway Fashion Show and Luncheon and a Fond Farewell Concours Brunch. "We are proud to establish this prestigious event at the resort," said Michael Carsch, event founder and general manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. "We are especially pleased to announce Mercedes-Benz as our presenting sponsor, Phil Hill, America's first Formula One world driving champion, as honorary chairman and The Earl B. Hadlow Center of Caring for Hospice Northeast Florida as our benefitting charity," said Mr. Carsch.
Robert Crolic, vice president, Mercedes-Benz of North America, Inc. said, "As the world's oldest automotive manufacturer, Mercedes-Benz is extremely pleased to present this exquisite event featuring historically significant automobiles of the past."
"Last year's Concours was an instant classic in its inaugural year with many exceptional automobiles," said Bill Warner, co-chairman of the event and contributing editor to Road & Track Magazine. "We expect this year's lineup to feature a stellar selection of significant vehicles, many of which are rarely seen in public," said Mr. Warner. Ferrari, for whom Mr. Hill raced when he won the world title, is the featured marque.
The first Concours d'Elegance (parade of elegance) was held in France in the 1800s. Today these events are held around the world in places such as the Bagatelle of Paris; London; Pebble Beach, California; and Meadow Brook, Michigan. "This event is a rare opportunity to see these impeccably maintained cars, and the South's only event of this caliber," said Mr. Warner.
For more information and reservations, please contact a travel professional, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Central Reservations at 1-800-241-3333 or the hotel directly at 904-277-1100.
For additional media information, please contact:
Bill Ussery
Mercedes-Benz of North America
phone: (904) 443-2135
email: ussery@usa.mercedes-benz.com
wwweb: http://www.classiccarshow.com
