The 1960 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia entered by Jane Chemngorem/FILEA stellar cast of newcomers is set to light up the 53rd edition of the Concours d’Elegance, scheduled for September 28, with Ugandan duo Simranjit Singh Channa and Emmanuel Omodek joining the growing international line-up.
Channa, making his debut at the prestigious event, will showcase two classic gems: a 1974 Mercedes-Benz W115 and a 1985 Range Rover Classic. Omodek enters with a freshly restored 1979 Mercedes-Benz R107.
Chirag Soni will be in the spotlight with a 1971 Cadillac DeVille, while Max Whitehead brings a vintage showstopper—a 1949 Land Rover Series 1.
Adding further excitement is the return of former overall winner Rick Agagliate, making a comeback with a 1926 Triumph street motorcycle and a Yamaha Enduro. He is expected to be a strong contender in the hotly contested motorcycle category.
Peter Wanday, Chairman of the Alfa Romeo Owners Club and event organiser, expressed confidence in this year’s competition.
“We are excited about the number of new vehicles signed up from Kenya and beyond. Competitors have been busy preparing their cars, and I can assure you the standard will be very high,” said Wanday.
The Concours remains a premier platform for owners of classic and vintage machines to showcase years of meticulous restoration, judged by a panel of experienced evaluators.
Beyond the coveted overall prizes, participants will compete across 20 categories for cars, pick-ups, SUVs, and motorcycles. Additional honours will be awarded for the most elegant car and motorcycle.
Among returning participants is Paul Chemngorem, fielding three entries: a 1969 MGB GT, a 1981 BMW 316, and a 1960 Volkswagen Ghia entered by his wife, Jane, who is known for captivating fans with her creative costumes.
The oldest confirmed entry this year is Dominique Antoine’s 1925 Triumph 550 SD. He also brings a 1959 BSA B33 to compete in the motorcycle category.
The two-wheel segment will be bolstered by a roaring line-up of riders from Zimbabwe, Uganda, and Kenya. Local entrants include Tumaini Muthiga with a 1985 Honda VFR 750, and Prateek Singh Gulati on a Yamaha Roadster—a 2001 build boasting a 1700cc engine.
In addition to the judging, 28 motor trade stands will feature new vehicles and accessories at the racecourse grounds. A Classic Car and Motorcycle Sale, open to models manufactured in 2000 or earlier, will also run alongside the main event.
