The grounds of the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island and The Golf Club of Amelia Island will be filled with some of the finest classic and vintage cars in the nation as the annual Concours d'Elegance returns to Amelia Island March 12-14.

Now in its 15th year, this event is one of the premier shows in America, featuring over 250 rare automobiles and motorcycles from private collections worldwide. This year's honoree is the one-and-only Richard Petty. A seven-time NASCAR series champion and winner of 200 races during his career, Petty is considered one of the greatest stock car drivers ever and is a member of practically every motorsports hall of fame around.

Mercedes-Benz, a longtime sponsor of this event, will be honored as the featured marquee.

In addition to the main show day on Sunday, March 14, the Concours d'Elegance offers an array of activities for auto enthusiasts.

Automotive Fine Arts Society
Thursday-Sunday • Various times
In their only East Coast appearance, the Automotive Fine Arts Society (AFAS) will display works by their members showcasing automotive subjects in a variety of mediums. For more information on AFAS, go to www.autoartgallery.com.

Porsche Driving Experience
Friday, March 12 • 7:30 a.m.
$175 per car includes 2 people per car and admission to the Porsche 917 seminar later that day. Reservations required. Ownership of a Porsche is not required.
 

The Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance features some of the finest and rarest automobiles in the world.
_________________________________________________________________

Porsche 917 Seminar
Friday, March 12 • 4 p.m.
Featuring a panel of 917 drivers moderated by David Hobbs and Sam Posey. $20 per person. reservations required.

RM Auctions  Preview
Friday, March 12 • 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Preview RM's magnificent auction line-up on the ocean front lawn at the Ritz-Carlton before the Saturday auction. For more information visit www.rmauctions.com.

Test Drives
Friday-Saturday • 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Various auto manufacturers will provide cars available for test drives at no charge.

The Three Greats: Petty, Moss & Garlits
Saturday, March 13 • 10:30 a.m. - noon
This seminar will feature Richard Petty, Sir Stirling Moss and Don Garlits recounting their experiences over their racing careers. Tickets are $30 or $45 per person. Reservations required.

Poster Signing with "The Three Greats"
Saturday, March 13 • 1:30 - 2:30 p.m.
Due to time constraints, only the official "Three Greats" poster will be signed. Poster will be aviailable on-site for a $20 donation.

Mercedes-Benz Gala Dinner
Saturday, March 13 • 7:30 p.m.
Keynote speaker is Richard Petty. $275 per person includes Breitling Cocktail Reception from 6:30 to 7:15. Reservations required.

Other activities include a Road Tour, Silent Auction, Book and Poster Signings, Fashion Show and Awards Presentation. For the most up-to-date information on events, or to purchase tickets, please call (904) 636-0027 or go to www.ameliaconcours.org.