The inspiration for the Desert Classic Concours d’Elegance began with founders, Paul and Holly Merrigan. They have been on the vintage racing and concours circuit for years. They met at the Monterey Historic Races at Laguna Seca; she was restoring an Alfa Romeo to race, he had a restored Alfa. They have enjoyed numerous rallies, races, and restoration projects. Paul estimates that he has restored 30-40 vehicles including their Vignale bodied Maserati A6GCS that won its class at the 1998 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. In 2002, the Merrigans moved from the San Francisco area to the Palm Springs area.

A desire to combine their interest in cars with their community spirit resulted in the decision that a world-class concours could build on Palm Springs’ automotive traditions, bring economic benefits to the area and raise money for local charity.

“We have been very fortunate in our life, and we want to leave the world a better place. This is a great opportunity to raise money and direct it to the organizations we want to help.”

Paul & Holly Merrigan