How To Enter A Concours: Tips From The Pros
The summer concours season is now well and truly underway, and whether you have always wanted to enter a concours but not sure what it entails, or if you are familiar with the events but unsure of how to gain the best advantage, we have compiled the ultimate quick guide to make entering a concours with your classic easy.
Pick your event
Luckily for classic car owners, the UK is a hotbed of classic car events that take place all across the country, catering for all tastes and all cars. While there are internationally attended events at locations such as Hampton Court Palace (sponsored by Footman James) and large events like Chateau Impney Hill Climb, there are also hundreds of locally organised events that cater for single marques and local clubs which are open to all comers regardless of vehicle age. A concours event is first and foremost meant to be enjoyed, so find an event that suits your taste which will welcome your vehicle.
Preparing your car like a pro
At the risk of stating the obvious, your vehicle will need to be clean; really clean, inside, outside and under the bonnet. No corner can be left untouched if you are looking for trophies.
When it comes to washing a car, the old adage of ‘start at the top and work downwards’ is key. Areas such as cabriolet hoods need a brush off and a shampoo before the paintwork is touched, and areas that are likely to hold the most grime such as wheels (if possible take the wheel off to clean, that way you can clean, polish or paint the hub and calipers) and the underside should be left to last. Make sure to rinse off as much loose dust and dirt as you can before beginning the sponging process, avoiding the use of strong and non-automotive soaps that can damage old paintwork and chrome. Above all, remember to rinse the sponge regularly as you go so you don’t drag the dirt across the paintwork.
Expert restorer Nigel Woodward, Managing Director of Classic Motor Cars, said: “It is amazing how well an old-fashioned chamois leather works. After washing the car using a good quality shampoo such as our Classic Guard ceramic-infused product, remove excess water and dry the paint, glass and brightwork with a good quality chamois. It gives you a really good head start on polishing the car by leaving the surfaces streak free. You can even use it to help clean leather and vinyl interior trim. Just remember to wash the chamois thoroughly after use in warm soapy water and it will last you for years.”
###
