Concours d’Elegance is a term of French origin that means a “competition of elegance” and refers to an event where prestigious vehicles are displayed and judged. It dates back to the 17th century where the French aristocracy paraded horse drawn carriages in the parks of Paris during summer weekends and holidays. Overtime, the carriages gave way to automobiles and the gatherings became a competition among vehicle owners to be judged on the appearance of their vehicles.
We also have no pressure “Show and Shine” events that are normally part of Porsches and Pastries and sometimes part of regular Concours events. These are not judged and allow members that want to show their special car, but don’t want to be part of a judged competition, to come out and be part of the Concours.In the Chicago Region we have four competitively judged Show ‘n Shine and Concours events combined with Social Events scheduled from May through September. And back this year is the Geneva Concours in August with Porsche parking on Campbell Street.
Our Show ‘n Shine competition is an easy way to enjoy and show your Porsche. All you need to do is clean the outside of your Porsche, (body, glass, wheels & tires) and you are ready to participate. Judging is simple and based on the Cleanliness only of the exterior of your car. 1st, 2nd and 3rd places will be awarded in all Show ‘n Shine groups. All attendees can vote for the People’s Choice Award. Every level is welcome. If you have never participated in Concours before, this fun and informal Show ‘n Shine event is a great way to learn the ins and outs of Concours. Ready for more?? Step up to Concours.
Our Concours competition consists of three classes all judged on the basis of the Cleanliness and Condition of the car. Concours has three separate competitive classes where additional areas of the car are judged for cleanliness and condition. In order from bottom to top:
Street Class: Exterior and Interior
Touring Class: Exterior, Interior and Storage
Grand Touring Class: Exterior, Interior, Storage, Engine or Chassis These classes are a pathway to help you best learn about the preparation and
preservation of your Porsche for competition at the Regional Level or at the National Porsche Parade. Many of our members have started in Show ‘n Shine, moved up through Concours and overtime became National winners!!
Each year we conduct a Concours School in March and a Judge’s School in April before our season of easy competitive events begins. All of our events are Social in nature and a real opportunity to learn and compete with your beautiful Porsche at a fun venue.
Our Concours Judges are always willing to answer your questions and help you become a Concours or Show ‘n Shine advocate. The best way to start is to attend the Concours School in March.
● Register for Concours School to have fun and see your friends! ● Meet our very knowledgeable and friendly Concours Team.
● Learn about car care products and preparation techniques.
● Become better acquainted with both the Show ‘n Shine and Concours Programs for 2025.
Preparing Your Car
Requirements for Concours Judge Certification
- Maintain a Concours Judge Log Book and have all events signed off by the Chief Class Judge or Event Chair
- Attend Concours School at least once every two years
- Attend Concours Judges School at least once every two years
- Display a Porsche in a judged class at a Regional or National PCA Concours event at least three times during the past two year period
- Attend at least five Regional Concours events as a Judge during the past two year period
- Demonstrate your judging skills at a Regional Concours to two Chief Class Judges sufficient to receive certification
Requirements for Concours Chief Class Judge Certification
- Obtain Concours Judge Certification
- Attend at least three Regional Concours events as a Judge during the past year
- Commitment to attend at least four Regional Concours Events in the upcoming year as a Chief Class judge
- Display a Porsche at a National PCA Concours in a Full or Touring Class at least once during the past five year period
- Participate in the Judging process at a national PCA Concours at least once during the past three years
- Demonstrate your judging skills at a Regional Concours to two Chief Class Judges sufficient to receive certification
Recognition
- All Certified Concours Judges will receive a Chicago Region Concours Judge patch to display proudly
- All list of all Certified Concours Judges will be maintained and updated by the Chicago Region Concours Chair
- A list of all Certified Concours Judges will be listed on the Chicago Region website to recognize their commitment to the Region Concours Program
