Calling the cause “unforeseen circumstances,” the three car clubs staging the annual Legends of the Autobahn West car snow on the Monterey Peninsula have announced the event’s relocation August 14 to the Monterey County Fairgrounds.
“It is with great surprise and regret that we announce the move of Legends from Carmel Valley to the Monterey County Fairgrounds,” Frank Patek, executive of the BMW Car Club of America, is quoted in the announcement.
“After months of planning, meticulous adherence to the Monterey County Special Event permitting process, approval from the core agencies such as MFD and CHP — and attaining approval from each — still new hurdles and barriers were being placed in front of us as late as this week.
“Coincidentally, difficulties with the County began at or nearly the same time as the Carmel Valley Association (residents) launched a campaign to stop Legends from ‘destroying the rural character of the valley’.
“While Legends most certainly would not have destroyed the valley it would have been an economic driver for the restaurants, cafes, shops and tasting rooms in the village. All of which have struggled to remain open and profitable during the pandemic. Equally sad is that CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children of Monterey County) has been denied a donation of $20,000. (Funding to have been derived via the spectator parking fee.)
“I am grateful and honored to thank the Monterey CVB, the City of Monterey and the team at the Monterey County Fairgrounds for their willingness to welcome Legends and to work with such speed and determination as to make it possible. On behalf of the Audi Club of North America, the Mercedes Benz Club of America and the BMW Car Club of America I hope that all members will join us in our expression of thanks and gratitude.”
The news release noted “The all-German marque Concours d’Elegance, which has become a pillar of the Monterey Car Week schedule, will proceed at the fairgrounds on the originally scheduled date of Saturday, August 14, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Hosted by the BMW Car Club of America, Audi Club North America, and Mercedes-Benz Club of America, the event will showcase over 300 member-owned cars and feature special displays from manufacturers, sponsors, and vendors.”
The release noted that, as usual, there will be no admission fee for spectators.
