Every two years some of the very best Jaguar in Norh America are gathered for the JCNA Challenge Championship. The previous edition, held in July 2001 in Franklin Tn, had topped all expectations both in quality and quantity so it is really unfair to even try to compare the two events.

While overall attendance was down a bit in Phoenix (economy, war, ... take your pick!), it was still higher than the last Challenge held in the west (Colorado 1999) and there was a little over 100 Jaguars lined up in beautiful Heritage Square in downtown Phoenix.

The concours display was centered around two main features. Near the entrance the Jaguar Select Edition Donovan racing team presented their cars under their trailer canopy and right accross them was JCC chair Dennis Eynon's modified 1953 XK120. A true art piece on wheel was extensively modified with great attention to details. From its faired in headlights with trim inspired by the later E-types, wheel covers, bumpers, and an all leather interior (incl headliner and floors), highly detailed engine bay, this is stunning car.

Competing for attention were two special XK8s brought by Jaguar. The Austin Power XK8 was on display with two "matching" models, not toy cars but F1 Grid Girls passing out flyers for the US Grand Prix; with so many sensual curves the "yeahbaby" license plate says it all... Next to the Vintage Racing E-types was the James Bond XKR complete with rocket launchers and machine guns.

On the other side of Heritage Square, local collector and restorer Terry Larson brought in a sampling of Jaguar's golden age of racing with an SS100, C-type, D-type, XKSS and lightweight E-type. The cars which truly made Jaguar's name on race tracks. Terry Larson, who was behind the incredible display of C and D-types in Franklin two years ago, also arranged for the legendary Norman Dewis to sign 2 original Le Mans posters from the 50s which were auctioned as a fund raiser for Hospice.

As with the previous days, event organizers had planned to keep participants well fed with a breakfast buffet and a full lunch served in a shaded area. Great to get out of the hot sun and relax with friends! All was included in the registration package thanks to the sponsors which allowed JCNA to reduce entry fees.

Judging started around 11am, under the scrutiny of Chief Judge Dick Cavicke and went smoothly with plenty of experienced judges.

In a departure from previous Challenges, results where tabulated immediately and the award ceremony took place at the end of the show. A great idea which seem to be appreciated by all; it reduces the lengths of the evening banquet and also allows us to know who the Best of Show is while it can be admired on the field.

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Best of Show went to Jeff Snyder of Austin Tx for his 1962 E-type Series 1 Roadster the only car on the field to receive a perfect 100 point score. Interestingly, Jeff started the restoration last thanksgiving and yet was able to complete in time for the Challenge Championship Like previous winner of the Challenge Championship Best of Show, Jeff received a special briefcase full of Zymol detailing product along with a certificate good for a lifetime supply!

The Judges Choice award went to Dennis Eynon for this XK120 described ealier. Best Drriven Jaguar trophy went to JCAZ member Ralph Carungi for his 1963 E-type THC. All three trophies were eye catching tall glass cactus on a wooden base and were presented during the Award Banquet which took place at the Mariott that same evening.

During the banquet, Richard Beattie, Exec. VP of Marketing & Sales for Jaguar Cars North America, addressed club members on the current state of the company and where it is heading. The focus was heavily on the all new 2004 XJ8 and to the relief of most enthusiasts, he confirmed Jaguar will NOT be producing an SUV...