Under brilliant sunshine and gentle breezes, the inaugural Gasparilla Concours d’elegance filled Tampa’s Curtis Hixon River walk Park with historic and vintage examples of automotive excellence.
The event, benefiting Shriner's Hospitals for Children Tampa campus, which focuses on treating children with orthopedic and neuromusculoskeletal conditions, brought out the best of the best from United States President Woodrow Wilson’s 1919 Pierce arrow to Dale Earnhardt Jr’s ground shaking NASCAR.
Representations of the most rare, original and historically significant automobiles and motorcycles greeted visitors early Saturday morning as crowds gathered to walk among participants and enjoy the sights and sounds of local entertainment, automotive themed art and Tampa’s iconic minarets.
In Florida style, white clouds accented deep blue skies and golden sun casting both visitors and participants alike in glorious light and spring temperatures.
“You can’t beat the scenery” said Connie Asher. There’s just so much to do and see down here from River Walk and the Glazer Children’s Museum to all the local restaurants, it’s fantastic!”
For many car owners, the opportunity to share their part of automotive history for a great cause meant so much more than winning awards. "Shriners does so much good for these kids" said one participant "and this is my way of saying thank you for all they do.
Having treated nearly 60,000 patients in Tampa since opening in 1985, patients receive expert care to overcome seemingly insurmountable difficulties to heal and recover. " I've displayed my car at many shows but none more important than this one."
It was a sentiment heard throughout the day.
The inaugural Gasparilla Concours D'elegance brought out the best of the best from planners, sponsors and volunteers to a picturesque Curtis Hixon Park with many participants going home with unique one of a kind awards.
For most however, it was all about the kids at Shiners Hospitals. "It was a great time for a great cause" said one recipient. "Everything was first class, how could you not want to be here?"
For more information or to be a part of next years exclusive event visit Gasparilla concours. To learn more about Shiners or to make a donation visit Shriners hospital for children.
Where every child shines.
Copyright © 2019 JP Emerson All Rights Reserved.