Automobile aficionados turned out in throngs to witness the renowned Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance August 21. Framed by Monterey Peninsula’s dramatic landscape, nearly 200 collector cars and motorcycles were exhibited at the luxe Pebble Beach Golf Link’s eighteenth fairway.

In its 61st year, this annual classic car event attracted competitors from 30 states, 14 countries and the principality of Monaco, whose vehicles were judged in 29 classes. The automotive competition, presented by Rolex and co-sponsored by Mercedes Benz, showcased vehicles  that celebrated 125 years of Mercedes Benz.

A stunning display of Ferrari 250 GTOs was rolled out in honor of the sports car’s 50th anniversary, alongside prized pieces from Rolls-Royce, Porsche, Jaguar, Bugatti and more. In the end, a 1934 Voisin C-25 Aerodyne owned by Peter and Merle Mullin from Los Angeles was named “Best of Show.”

Celebrities in attendance included musician Sheryl Crow, Academy Award-winning actress Mira Sorvino and former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. Actor Edward Herrmann participated as the event’s master of ceremonies for the 13th time.

The Tonight Show host and car collector Jay Leno made a guest appearance at the award ceremony – two days after he joined a crowd of auto enthusiasts in scenic Carmel Valley for The Quail: A Motorsports Gathering August 19. The ninth year of the popular lifestyle exhibition at Quail Lodge Golf Club included an impressive assortment of vintage cars and motorcycles, including special classes celebrating 50 years of the Jaguar E-Type and Ferrari America and Superamerica models.

Spectators and collectors lined up for special book signings by British racing legend Derek Bell and auto photographer Michael Furman. Some lucky attendees also had the opportunity to meet Alma Hill, the widow of famed International Motorsports Hall of Fame member Phil Hill.

This year, The Quail commemorated the 50th anniversary of Hill’s Formula One World Drivers’ Championship.

In addition to viewing vehicles, guests were treated to live music and food, as well as cocktails, wine and Roederer Champagne. A special Bonhams & Butterfields auction took place on the event grounds. Robert Graham and Cayen and Pat Areias joined other jewelry, fashion and art vendors with displays along the show field. Several major auto marques, including Lamborghini, Maserati, Bentley and Bugatti, displayed their latest releases as well.

Proceeds from the 2011 The Quail: A Motorsports Gathering benefited the California Highway Patrol 11-99 Foundation, CASA of Monterey County, Rancho Cielo and the American Red Cross, Monterey Bay Area Chapter.