In early 1998 Mr. Willis McLeese was approached by Ms. Dorothy Telford, a local real estate agent and board member of Georgian Riding Association for Challenged Equestrians (GRACE), to consider purchasing a spectacular 574-acre property just north of Owen Sound, the present day Cobble Beach. After reviewing the site, which slopes away from Grey County Road #1 approximately 250 feet to Georgian Bay below, Willis’ 85 year old mind starting racing with all the possibilities.
Willis and his son, Rob, could see that a wonderful promenade of high end, beautiful antique and classic cars parading down Cobble Beach Drive to the elegant Clubhouse would be a magnificent and magical sight not only for those viewing the automobiles but for those also driving vehicles. This gave birth to the conception of a Concours d’Elegance at Cobble Beach.
In 2011, Mr. Joseph Sulpizi, CEO and Founder of The Brand Factory, introduced Mr. Billy Smilovsky of Engineered Automotive to Mr. Rob McLeese, CEO and co-creator of Cobble Beach. With a shared vision of producing a Concours d’Elegance at Cobble Beach, they have fulfilled a dream of Willis McLeese and, consequently, a dream of their own.
Sunnybrook Helipad Campaign
Sunnybrook Foundation exists to support the advancement of their world-class health sciences centre, through active fundraising in support of research, education and equipment initiatives at Sunnybrook Hospital. A portion of every ticket sold at the Cobble Beach Concours d’Elegance will be given in support of this worthwhile cause.
Please visit www.sunnybrook.ca/foundation for more information and how you can further support them in the future.
Discover more about Cobble Beach and how to further enjoy your Concours d’Elegance getaway at www.cobblebeachconcours.com