Let’s Hear It For The Diminutive Dynamos!

Malvern PA—Fresh off their 20th anniversary celebration last year, the Radnor Hunt Concours d’Elegance showed no sign of slowing its pace September 8-10 as it strode confidently into the beginnings of its third decade. The combination of its pastoral setting and the late summer blue skies and bright sunlight made it another memorable event.

This Concours limits itself to 100 cars each year giving an intimate feel. Cars are frequently combined into featured groups, each concentrating on a specific marque or theme. Abarth, the iconic Italian marque steeped in racing history around the world, captured everyone’s attention with a comprehensive display of Carlo Abarth’s finest creations. Part of what could be termed “Diminutive Dynamos,” these racers are often confined to the background in photos of larger, louder, bigger cars or to the “Other Class Winners” section of race coverage, but they are worthy of attention in their own right. At Radnor Hunt, they were afforded just that.

John Kristoff’s 1956 Fiat Abarth 750 GT Competition Coupe. Photo by Mike “M.M.” Matune, Jr.

Take for example John Kristoff’s 1956 Fiat Abarth 750 GT Competition Coupe (photo above). Not only is it one of about 20 lightweight coupes built, it was part of the team that took the first three places in class at the grueling 1957 Mille Miglia. After languishing in storage for nearly 40 years, it was restored and presented on the show field for all to scrutinize. In doing so, one gained a unique appreciation for what it took to get so much from so little.

Mike Tillson, concours founder and chairman, along with all of those involved in staging the event are to be congratulated on a job very well done along with Diane and Don Meluzio for their efforts in arranging the Abarth display.

Visit www.radnorconcours.org as plans are made for the event in 2018.—Mike “M.M.” Matune Jr.