Classic Car Club of Ceylon treats members to memorable ‘Classic Drive 2019’ weekend

The Classic Car Club of Ceylon (CCCC) celebrated the successful conclusion of its annual members’ weekend getaway, the two-day ‘Classic Drive 2019’, which brings together members for an opportunity to drive, unwind and connect.

Fuelled by a strong cup of coffee to last the day, members took their places behind the wheel for a 7.00 a.m. start from Ape Gama in Battaramulla on 21 September. Flagged off by Managing Director Rohan Fernando and Event Sponsor Wheels Ltd. Director Chandev Fernando, the cars were off.

A total of over 50 participating classic beauties drove in an eye-catching convoy for the first leg of the journey, drawing in crowds of enthralled onlookers en route. A little over an hour into the drive, the members stopped for breakfast at a picturesque estate bungalow in Ingiriya. Following a truly scrumptious Sri Lankan breakfast, the members commenced the second leg of the drive. As the procession wound its way through scenic stretches of road, through Ingiriya, Horana and Bandaragama, the participants also engaged in a fun location-based quiz along the way.

Upon having reached their destination of the Blue Waters Hotel in Wadduwa, owners parked their pride and joys for the night, ready for the many activities in store. In addition to the stimulating schedule of forums and sessions, one that was of particular significance was the first-ever Women’s Classic Car Forum where the high tea and gift packs were sponsored by Wurth Lanka Ltd. 

With over 35 female participants, the forum was chaired by CCCC President Ramani Ponnambalam and included an array of fascinating discussions on participants’ experiences with classic cars as well as an entertaining and interactive quiz. Wurth Lanka Ltd. Customer Service Manager Zameena Salam also addressed the gathering of women. 

As night fell, festivities took on a much lighter note, starting by the poolside with cocktails and then moving on to the banquet hall for the gala dinner. Much to everyone’s delight, prior to dinner a karaoke competition brought out many members’ hidden talents. On the following morning, after a wholesome breakfast, the members took a leisurely drive back to Colombo at their own convenience.

“The Classic Drive 2019 made for a memorable weekend of motoring for all of our members,” said Ponnambalam, commenting on the success of yet another member event. “Our annual getaway is the perfect setting for members to interact and share our enthusiasm for what connects us the most – our love for classic automobiles.”

The Classic Car Club of Ceylon was founded in 1992 with the intention of bringing together classic car aficionados from across the country to celebrate their mutual enthusiasm for vintage automobiles, either through the promotion or preservation of these highly-coveted vehicles. Now over 250 members strong, the CCCC boasts a vast array of stunning and rare classic cars.In addition to regular exclusive events such as the member weekends, the club also actively invests in cultivating a love for these automobiles with the public, by organising various informative events and participating in larger shows. The CCCC is extremely grateful to the premium sponsor of Classic Drive 2019, Wheels Ltd, not just for its involvement in the event but also for its continuous support of the club. The resounding success of the members’ getaway is also greatly due to the Blue Waters Hotel, Wurth Lanka and Sri Lanka Police for ensuring the event’s success.