Biggest-ever bash for the banal at Festival of the Unexceptional

| 19 Jun 2019
Classic & Sports Car – Festival of the Unexceptional to be bigger than ever

Next month’s Festival of the Unexceptional will be the largest yet, because the standard of entries was so high that judges were unable to sufficiently narrow down the field.

Now in its sixth edition, the Hagerty-run Concours d’Ordinaire, celebrating exceptionally everyday – but now increasingly rare – classic vehicles will feature 53 cars, rather than the usual 50.

In all, 125 cars were nominated for this concours with a difference, each accompanied by a tale of passionate devotion that made the judges’ decision harder than ever, meaning an extra three cars were permitted for 2019’s showcase.

And, it should be noted, each contender will be driven to and from the event on Saturday 20 July at Claydon Estate in Buckinghamshire.

Classic & Sports Car – Festival of the Unexceptional to be bigger than ever
Classic & Sports Car – Festival of the Unexceptional to be bigger than ever

When did you last see a drop-top Yugo (left) or a Marina Coupé? Exactly

Among the rarities set to star at this summer’s extravaganza are a Yugo 45 Convertible that was rare when new, and a now concours-standard Marina Coupé that once functioned as a dog kennel.

These will be joined by a 1984 Austin Ambassador, a 1978 Renault 6, a 1978 Chrysler Horizon, a 1989 Citroën BX in the marque’s centenary year and 1979 Colt Sigma, plus many more.

How many more? As well as the hand-picked 53 perfectly presented examples of everyday motoring will be invitational categories for ’bikes, mopeds and commercial vehicles, plus an anniversary class and cars from manufacturer heritage fleets.

And that’s before you take into account the public car park, which organisers expect will contain around 500 unexceptional stars.

Classic & Sports Car – Festival of the Unexceptional to be bigger than ever

Retro food and drink is the order of the day, too

The Feast of the Unexceptional is back, too, with owners encouraged to picnic in period style with their cars, right down to the chairs and menu.

“This event give so much joy to people as it provides a great opportunity to revel in pure nostalgia. There are winners, but in our mind anyone who cherishes their unexceptional car is a hero,” said Marcus Atkinson, Marketing Director of Hagerty Insurance.

“We love hosting the event and meeting friends new and old and chatting about their cars and tasting the picnics, it’s a truly lovely day out.”

Want to go? Tickets are just £5 and can be bought here. And you can take a look at the event’s website here.


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