Pebble Beach, California – A 1938 Alfa Romeo was named “Best of Show” at the 58th Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, held August 18 at Pebble Beach Golf Links in California. The winning owners were Jon and Mary Shirley of Medina, Washington.

Jon Shirley, the former president and CEO of Microsoft, purchased the Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Touring Berlinetta four years ago. The model was the automaker’s most prestigious grand touring car of the 1930s, and only 33 were ever completed for road use, most bodied by Carrozzeria Touring. The winning car’s body is unique and was one of six privately-commissioned Berlinettas; it was used in several advertisements by Alfa Romeo.

“This car has an intriguing history,” Shirley said. “It won the first race at Watkins Glen in 1948, and though the car’s been driven quite a bit, it’s never been wrecked. I’ve always been an Alfa fan, so winning at Pebble Beach just doesn’t get much better. I can’t wait to take it back on the road real soon.”

Competitors from 27 states and 12 countries entered their vehicles for judging in 24 classes, including the oldest vehicle at the show, an 1892 Peugeot. The event’s raffles, auctions, sponsorships and gate receipts helped raise more than US$1.3 million to charity for the third consecutive year.

Next year’s event is scheduled for Sunday, August 16, 2009, with Bentley and Bugatti named the official marques. For more information, visit Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.