Organizers of the Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance are once again turning their attention to the next generation of car enthusiasts through the return of the Hagerty Youth Judging program during this year’s event on Sunday, June 8, at Ault Park.
Now in its 14th year, the youth program is a partnership between the Cincinnati Concours and Hagerty, an automotive organization known for promoting car culture. The initiative gives children ages 8 to 15 the opportunity to learn car judging basics and apply their skills on the show field.
Youth Judges will take part in a workshop on evaluation criteria and vehicle history before reviewing a pre-selected group of automobiles. They’ll then award first through third place in a youth-led judging competition.
Applications for the 2025 program are open now, with 25 youth participants to be selected. The deadline to apply is May 23. Each youth judge will receive two tickets to the Concours, as well as a hat, t-shirt, scorecard and refreshments.
Michael Kelly, a long-time Concours volunteer who co-leads the program, noted that two former youth judges have since joined the adult judging ranks and become involved in vehicle restoration.
“The Youth Judging Program brings a kid-friendly view to the world of classics,” he said. “They will have the opportunity to talk with car owners to learn about the details and history about each vehicle and make their determination based on the scoring criteria.”
About the event
The 47th annual Concours will feature more than 250 vintage, exotic, and historically significant vehicles displayed across Ault Park’s gardens. This year’s theme is “Icons of British Motoring.” Special classes will also recognize the 100th anniversary of Chrysler, Indian Motorcycles, and a showcase titled “Automotive Oddities: The Strange and Wonderful.”
Advance tickets for the June 8 show are $40 for adults and $15 for students with valid ID if purchased by May 25. After that date, tickets are $45 for adults. Children under 12 are admitted free. Additional ticket information and a full schedule of weekend events is available at www.ohioconcours.com.
The Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance is managed by a nonprofit foundation, with proceeds benefiting the Arthritis Foundation, including programs supporting children with juvenile arthritis.
Youth interested in participating in the Hagerty judging program can contact Kelly at mkelly11@cinci.rr.com or John Mereness at johnmereness@gmail.com.
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