AN EXPERIENCE BEYOND CARS
PARTICIPANTS
SANTA BARBARA INVITATIONAL CONCOURS
An Experience Beyond Cars
Ocean View Bluff - West Harbor Campus, 721 Cliff Drive, Santa Barbara, California
Experience an unforgettable exhibition of rare and classic motorcars at the inaugural Santa Barbara Invitational Concours, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.
INVITATION PROCESS
Spring 2025: Invitation Period
Entry applications for our eight competitive classic car categories, along with special showcases for young first-time and established female collectors, will be extended this spring. (Preference will be given to vehicles not exhibited at a major Concours within the past year.)
June 2025: Selection Committee Review
Our Concours Selection Committee will meticulously review applications and extend coveted invitations for the inaugural 2025 competition.
OPEN CAR SUBMISSIONS
July 1 – October 1, 2025:
​Collectors seeking to participate may submit qualifying vehicles* for consideration. Submissions will be accepted until October 1st, or until capacity is reached. (Vehicles must meet originality and authenticity requirements.)
SUPPORTING AUTOMOTIVE EDUCATION
Participant proceeds from the Santa Barbara Invitational Concours benefit students pursuing careers in automotive engineering, design, and mechanics. Learn more about our 501(c)(3) charitable mission.
EXCLUSIVE ENTRANT BENEFITS
As a participant, you'll enjoy two Weekend VIP Tickets, granting access to:
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Santa Barbara Concours Coastline Tour (11/15): Continental breakfast, Shopping in Montecito and the famed La Arcada (wine tasting, dining, shopping)
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The Motor-Cave & Sports Hospitality Bar
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The Santa Barbara Invitational Concours VIP Opening Reception (11/15)
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The Santa Barbara Invitational Concours & VIP Lounge (11/16): Continental breakfast, lunch, hospitality bar, program, and commemorative gift bag
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Discounted area hotel rooms Event and trailer parking
JUDGING STANDARDS
Our expert judging panel will evaluate vehicles based on authenticity, originality, condition, cleanliness, and systems functionality. Honors will be awarded for:
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1st and 2nd place winners in each competitive class.
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Best in Show.
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Chairman’s Awards for young first-time and established female collectors.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Contribute to the future of car collecting by volunteering at the Santa Barbara Invitational Concours. We need volunteers before, during, and after the Sunday Concours event. Shifts are available in 4, 6, and 8-hour increments. All volunteers receive complimentary snacks and beverages.
Please complete the Volunteer Form to indicate your availability and areas of interest
FOUNDERS & ADVISORS
Founder: Linda Rosso
Linda Rosso is a dedicated professional with expertise in fundraising and nonprofit development. Her vision for the Santa Barbara Invitational Concours combines her passion for luxury automobiles with a commitment to supporting local education and benefiting the Santa Barbara community.
Advisor: Richard Doucette
A Distinguished Collector Show Authority: Richard Doucette, founder of the renowned Boston Cup Classic Car Show, brings unparalleled expertise and prestige to the Santa Barbara Invitational Concours. With fourteen years of success in organizing the Northeast's premier invitation-only collector auto show, featuring 100 classic vehicles around historic Boston Common, Rich’s influence in the collector car world is undeniable. His deep knowledge and judging experience of classic Mercedes-Benz vehicles at prestigious shows, and his relationship with discerning collectors and enthusiasts nationwide, makes him an invaluable advisor to the Santa Barbara Invitational Concours.
Advisor: Lilly Pray
A Distinguished Concours Judge and Automotive Legacy: Lilly Pray is a highly respected figure in the collector car community, with over two decades of experience judging at the most prestigious Concours events across the United States. Starting her journey at the Hilton Head Concours d’Elegance, Lilly has lent her expertise to events such as the Boca Raton Concours, Greenwich Concours, Keels & Wheels, the Elegance at Hershey, Radnor Hunt, Carmel on the Avenue, Las Vegas, Scottsdale, and the Atlanta Concours. Lilly's passion for classic vehicles is deeply rooted in her family's legacy, stemming from her father, noted collector Malcolm Pray. She continues to honor his memory through the Malcolm Pray Achievement Center in Bedford, NY. Her reputation for upholding the highest standards of authenticity and excellence, and national standing makes her an essential advisor to the Santa Barbara Invitational Concours.