Perfect weather and a great cause helped Boca’s 14th Concours d’Elegance draw huge crowds. The trio of events founded and produced by Rita and Rick Case are fundraisers for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County.
No official count yet for Friday’s hangar party or Sunday’s car and motorcycle exhibit and competition at the Boca Raton Resort & Club.
But regulars noted the Boca Raton Airport bash was the best organized and drew record crowds to eat, drink, oogle cars and planes. Spectators also packed the grandstand and gourmet food areas Sunday or stood and watched the winner’s strut their stuff.
Sitcom star Billy Gardell entertained at the gala Saturday. But the real stars were the kids from the Florence De George Boys & Girls. They greeted guests and sang the National Anthem. Then clubs’ president and CEO Brian Quail introduced two Youths of the Year. Alexus M. told a moving story about her 9-year-old self was reluctant to go a club. And how going has changed her life.
“Tonight it’s not about me,” noted three-time Indianapolis 500 race winning race car driver Helio Castroneves. “It’s about the Boys & Girls Clubs. And Rita and Rick Case giving these young kids the opportunity to live their dream like I have.”
Big Wheels chairman Peter Gary encouraged the Cases and others to join him onstage to become major donors.
The event raised even more funds with the silent auction during cocktails and a live auction after dinner.
Sunday’s main event drew throngs of people to see the 200 collector cars and motorcycles on the Resort’s showgrounds. Once the awards ceremony started, it was all eyes on the winners of the finest vintage, antique, classic and exotic vehicles driven by owners.
By Marci Shatzman
