On September 1, 2024, Mossel Bay will welcome a thrilling new addition to the global automotive calendar with the debut of Santos Beach Auto Extremo. This exclusive car show promises to blend the charm of classic automobiles with the allure of modern supercars against a backdrop that rivals the world’s most prestigious venues.
Located at the picturesque waterfront of Santos Beach, the event aims to establish itself as a landmark gathering for car enthusiasts. According to Waldo Scribante, the event organizer and owner of the renowned Scribs BENZeum in George, the venue’s natural beauty is a perfect canvas for showcasing timeless classics and cutting-edge supercars. “We see this venue as providing a backdrop to rival some of the top classic car events in the world,” Scribante asserts.
A Historical and Scenic Venue
The Santos Beach Auto Extremo’s name pays homage to its Portuguese heritage, drawing inspiration from the term Automóvel Extremo. This nod to history connects the event to the legendary landing of Portuguese explorer Bartolomeu Dias in 1488. Scribante emphasizes that the name reflects both the historical significance of the location and the thrilling nature of the cars on display.
The event’s venue, de Bakke Caravan Park, is noted for its expansive green lawns, ample shade, and easy public accessibility—ideal for displaying an impressive array of classic and contemporary vehicles. Scribante likens the setting to other prestigious car shows like Italy’s Villa D’Este and Pebble Beach in California, highlighting its potential to become a premier event in its own right.
A Fusion of Old and New
Santos Beach Auto Extremo will feature a diverse lineup of classic and modern supercars. The event is designed to cater to a broad audience, from enthusiasts of sporty classics to admirers of ultra-sophisticated modern vehicles. Scribante notes that there is a natural synergy between owners of contemporary supercars and aficionados of iconic classics, and the event aims to celebrate this connection.
In addition to the car show, the event will mark the final leg of an inaugural Southern Cape tour, organized by the Southern Cape region of the Mercedes-Benz Club. This two-day tour will take participants from Cape Town to Mossel Bay, including scenic routes through Franschhoek Pass, Bonnievale, and Tradouw Pass, culminating in the Santos Beach Auto Extremo.
An Inclusive and Charitable Event
The show will be open to the public from 10 am to 4 pm, with an admission fee of R75 for adults and free entry for children. The event is not only a celebration of automotive excellence but also a charitable endeavor. Proceeds from ticket sales and car entrants will support local humanitarian organizations, including The Lions, the Round Table, and the NSRI.
Scribante, who also chairs the Southern Cape Old Car Club and organizes the George Old Car Show, envisions Santos Beach Auto Extremo as a potential precursor to a week-long festival of motoring in the Southern Cape. With the region’s rich tradition of festivals like the Whale Festival and Oyster Festival, a dedicated car festival could become a major highlight of the local event calendar.
Looking Ahead
As the inaugural Santos Beach Auto Extremo approaches, excitement is building among the classic car and supercar communities. The event promises to offer a unique blend of historical significance, stunning scenery, and automotive passion. Owners interested in participating and members of the public seeking more information can contact the event organizers: Waldo Scribante at [email protected], Alewijn Dippenaar at [email protected], or Mimi Finestone at [email protected].
