The La Jolla Parks & Beaches board has approved support for the La Jolla Concours d'Elegance auto festival and the San Diego Triathalon Challenge Weekend, both set to occur at Scripps Park this year. These events mark significant returns and milestones for the community. The board's decision came during its February 23 meeting, with one dissent noted for the triathlon.
At its February 23 meeting, the La Jolla Parks & Beaches board voted to support two prominent events planned for Scripps Park in La Jolla.
The La Jolla Concours d'Elegance, celebrating its 20th year, is scheduled from Friday to Sunday, April 24-26. Promoter Laurel McFarlane noted that the event has stabilized in its format: “We kind of hit our groove, I think, five years ago. So nothing is changing for this year in regard to setup.” Highlights include a VIP party on Friday, Porsches & Power on Prospect on Saturday, and the main classic-car show on Sunday at Scripps Park. Setup begins as early as Wednesday, April 22, with a permit requested through noon on Monday, April 27, for cleanup. Organizers plan walkthroughs with San Diego Parks & Recreation Department representatives to check for any damage. This marks the second year under La Jolla-based Events.com, with the La Jolla Historical Society continuing as a benefactor. The board approved the event unanimously, following earlier endorsement from the La Jolla Traffic & Transportation Board.
The San Diego Triathalon Challenge Weekend, in its 33rd year, returns to Scripps Park for the second consecutive year after 27 years in La Jolla and a stint in Mission Bay. Set for October 23-25, it features a 1-mile ocean swim, 30-mile bike ride, and 8-mile run. Jessica Hill, special-events manager for the Challenged Athletes Foundation, said the permit will extend to midday on October 26 for move-out. Last year, large swells canceled the swim, leading to a last-minute 5K run; this year, the 5K is offered as a pre-event option with few other changes.
The board supported the triathlon, though member Kurt Hoffman dissented, proposing La Jolla Shores for better accessibility and to avoid impacts from upcoming Torrey Pines Road construction—a guardrail project starting late summer and lasting through year-end. Hill explained that Kellogg Park at La Jolla Shores lacks sufficient space, but organizers aim to enhance accessibility. She is scheduled to present to the Traffic & Transportation Board in March.
In related board business, members approved transferring $10,000 to fund a second picnic grove in Scripps Park, completing financing through donations, including major contributions from the family of the late Selma Malk. Construction, delayed by permitting issues, is now eyed for late summer or early fall rather than spring.