Automotive Artistry Shines at Balboa Bay Club's Prestigious Car Show

The Balboa Bay Resort's upper deck parking garage was transformed into a captivating automotive showcase, as the 17th annual Balboa Bay Club Car Show drew a crowd of over 2,000 guests on a recent summer Sunday. From vintage Rolls-Royces to cutting-edge Ferrari hybrids, the impressive assemblage of automobiles captivated attendees with their stunning designs and rich histories.

Celebrating the Finest in Automotive Excellence

A Vintage Rolls-Royce Sets the Tone

Upon arrival, guests were greeted by a gleaming, cloud-white vintage Rolls-Royce, setting the tone for the exceptional vehicles on display. This iconic British marque, renowned for its unparalleled craftsmanship and timeless elegance, immediately captured the attention of the crowd, hinting at the automotive treasures that awaited them.Beyond the Rolls-Royce, a stunning 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 SC Roadster owned by John Word of Newport Beach stole the show. This pristine, burgundy-colored convertible not only won the prestigious Chairman's Award but had also earned top honors at the renowned Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance, further solidifying its status as a true automotive masterpiece.

Cutting-Edge Innovations and Legendary Classics

The event's diverse lineup of vehicles ranged from the cutting edge to the timeless. Attendees marveled at the first-ever Ferrari hybrid and the brand's inaugural SUV, the Purosangue, showcasing the Italian marque's commitment to innovation and evolution. Alongside these modern marvels, a captivating array of vintage Cadillacs, Lincolns, Jaguars, Thunderbirds, Chevrolets, and classic Volkswagen buses reminded visitors of the enduring appeal of automotive design throughout the decades.

Honoring Automotive Legends and Enthusiasts

The highlight of the afternoon was the award ceremony, which recognized the contributions of two automotive legends: Fletcher "Ted" Jones, the purveyor of Mercedes-Benz in Newport Beach, and Jimmy Smith, the owner of Ultra Wheels and a recent inductee into the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame. These icons were celebrated for their exceptional achievements and unwavering dedication to the automotive industry.The awards ceremony also honored the passion and dedication of individual car enthusiasts. From the Best Stitch & Interior award for Cary Katsaris' 1953 Cadillac El Dorado Convertible to the Favorite Car in Show accolade for Bill Stellmacher's 1968 Volkswagen Shorty Bus, the event celebrated the diverse tastes and personal connections that drive the love for these magnificent machines.

A Showcase of Automotive Artistry

The Balboa Bay Club Car Show was a true celebration of automotive artistry, where the upper deck parking garage was transformed into a captivating canvas for these magnificent machines. Under the guidance of John Wortmann, chairman of the board of governors for the Balboa Bay Club, the event seamlessly blended the awe-inspiring presence of rare and iconic vehicles with the enthusiasm and appreciation of car enthusiasts from all walks of life.The event's success was a testament to the collaborative efforts of the Balboa Bay Resort and Club's team, including Cindy Racco, Leticia Rice, Aaron Trent, and Melanie Hertrick, who worked tirelessly to coordinate every aspect of the show. The result was a truly unforgettable experience that celebrated the enduring allure of the automobile and the passion that drives its devotees.