Laguna Seca course is the site for '09 Concorso Italiano

The owners of the Concorso Italiano have named the Laguna Seca Golf Ranch as the site for this year's event in August.

The golf course is located about halfway between the Monterey airport and the Laguna Seca racetrack. The announcement returns the event to a golf-course setting. The 2008 Concorso was held at the Marina City airport. Some exhibitors and spectators were unhappy with the event location and food services.

In an e-mail sent Thursday, event owner Tom McDowell said this year's Concorso Italiano would deliver an "enhanced food experience at a reasonable price, exceptional wine, music, special Italian guest commentaries, fashion and other scheduled entertainment."

The event is scheduled for Aug. 14 from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. This year's Concorso also will have a separate entrance for exhibitors and vendors, McDowell's message said.

Tickets will cost $85 per person through May 31, according to the announcement. After that, the price rises to $100. Ticket price includes on-site parking. Children age 12 and younger are admitted free.

Owners of an Italian vehicle can enter it in the event for $125 through May 31 and $175 after that. Car entry includes two spectator tickets. Want to display a non-Italian vehicle? That will cost you $175 through May 31 and $225 after that.

For more information, visit www.concorso.com.

By Dale Jewett