2000 South Carolina Low Country Classic

2000 South Carolina Low Country Classic
Charleston, SC

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E-types reflecting of the boot of a Mark V

October 6^{th, 7th& 8th.Club # 34 hosted The Low Country
Concour, Rally and Slalom. For our club, Pascal and I drove to Charleston on Friday
afternoon. The city was bustling with action because the Citidel, located next to the
hotel, the Radisson, and the College of Charleston were having parent’s weekend. Our
hotel was also having the Southern Baptist Convention at the same time. All 1100 rooms
were booked, and the block of Jaguar rooms were booked early.}

Friday evening Palmetto Jaguar had an informal cocktail party at the dealership for the club and guests. The food and open bar were plentiful and delicious. The club was selling raffle tickets for the beautiful gifts from the dealership. Saturday was the Concour. The location was directly across from the hotel in one of the city parks.

Attendance was more than expected with a variety of makes and models. There was a good mix of Champion Driven, and Display Class models. This Concour was host to other British models joining in the festivities. The club was extremely organized with the sale of raffle tickets, registration, door prize tickets, and judge lunches. Cold beverages were also being sold to all the attendees. The dealership had donated the use of a new XK 8 Roadster to the club for the weekend. The judging started promptly at 12:00 and was complete by 2:00 pm.

The Carolina Club # 21 attended in strength. After the Concour they held their monthly meeting in the shade of the moss covered trees. I attended as the Regional Director. I was most impressed with the comrodery and willingness to participate in club activities and committees. It was easy to see they were all friends and all having fun.

After the Concour, everyone had free time. Pascal and I decided to visit " Old Charleston ". The narrow streets, old buildings, and quaint shops were delightful. We walked toward the "House of Commons" and the Port. This harbor area was charming. As we walked toward the seaside we happened into an old pub that was established in 1801 " If only these walls could talk " we both thought. Many cities attempted to recreate old world charm, but like an original Jaguar, anyone can do a restoration but there is only one original. Charleston is the real thing.

That evening the Radisson hosted the awards dinner, again, more people than expected, but the hotel was able to accommodate their needs. The dinner was buffet style, both ample and delicious. All attendees were treated to a good time. Palmetto Jaguar was one of the many speakers. There is a relationship between the dealer and the club that was enviable. They have a partnership that the dealer encourages. It was wonderful to witness.

Sunday was rally and slalom time. The weather grew colder over night with the temperature in the low 50’s. Everyone was bundled up and ready to go. Several O.T.S. and Drop Heads attended in the true British fashion, with tops down. Pascal and I were 1st out and in. We found the scenic roads a challenge at posted speed, we compensated. The rally started at 10:00 and was complete by noon.

Due to the lateness of the day, we decided to forgo the second leg of the day, the slalom, and return home. Our result will be forthcoming for our rally standings. It was fun. The entire weekend was great. I invited both clubs and guests to join us at our Concour. We as a club need to reciprocate hospitality. It will be my pleasure to do exactly that.

Russel Glace

Serious Concours competition is hard work...
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Bob Hotaling's E-type, a beautiful restoration :
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A royal looking Mark V... originally owned by the King of Belgium
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How do you spell 420G ? B-I-G !
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Modern XK's corner, 2 XK8 and Pascal Gademer's XKR side by side
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The next day, in a cold morning... Jaguars ready to play on the rally :
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Dick Deibel (center) tries to convince participants that he didn't plan any cheap tricks on this rally...
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