by Michael Satterfield - Photos by Lucas Kepner - 08/20/2024
The 2024 Wheels | Watches | Whiskey event at The Stella Hotel and Lake Walk was a spectacular convergence of luxury, charity, and camaraderie. For the second year running, the event drew automotive enthusiasts, watch connoisseurs, and whiskey aficionados for an unforgettable evening of high-octane elegance, all supporting a cause that every car enthusiast can get behind. This year’s event exceeded attendance expectations. It shattered its charity goal for OnRamp, providing a deserving family with the reliable transportation they need to get back on their feet.
The event started for our team and me on Friday night when we hosted a private dinner for some of our partners and special guests. The pairing dinner was built around an incredible selection of wines from Ferrari Trento, the official sparkling wine of Formula 1.
The evening began with an impressive display of automotive excellence. The star of the show was our own Bulova Racing Beach SV16, a car that embodies the spirit of vintage racing and was just featured in the launch of the new Bulova Racer watch. However, the McLaren 750S from McLaren North America was the draw, positioned on a special checkerboard platform provided by Flooring Inc. The flooring and large McLaren flags flanking it made it the centerpiece of the display on the lawn.
The event also featured the Apex Auto Works Pikes Peak Hill Climb Car, which set the twelfth fastest time up Pikes Peak this past June. From race cars to classics, attendees were treated to a lineup of Ferrari, Lamborghini, MG, and Triumph cars. These exotic and classic vehicles, each with its own story, highlight the unique history of the automobile.
Guests explored luxury timepieces from Bulova, Tudor, Seaholm, and DuFrane, which showcased their latest collections, offering something for every watch enthusiast. Complementing the watches was an array of fine whiskeys, each more enticing than the last. Guests had the chance to sample offerings from Tamdhu, World Whiskey Society, Brazos Valley Vodka Company, Maverick Distilling, and Four Roses.
This year, the event expanded beyond The Stella Hotel, taking over the entirety of Lake Walk. This expansion allowed for a broader range of experiences, with tastings and vehicle displays spread across multiple venues. Kanji Sushi, The Board Room, 6Whiskey, and Woodhouse Spa hosted unique whiskey-tasting experiences.
While the event was undoubtedly a dream for car, watch, and whiskey enthusiasts, its core mission was to support OnRamp Texas. Over $10,000 was raised for the charity through a silent auction featuring items from Ferrari Trento, Pacto Helmets, and artist Arthur Schening. These funds will directly support OnRamp’s mission to provide safe and reliable transportation to needy families, ensuring they can pursue opportunities and build a better future. The auction's success was a testament to the generosity of the attendees and the car community.
The festivities didn’t end on Saturday night. The following morning, over 20 vehicle owners and media members participated in the first-ever Round Top Rally. This spirited drive took participants from The Stella Hotel to Round Top, Texas, taking the scenic route known for its fun roads and charming countryside.
Upon arriving in Round Top, the rally participants were treated to lunch at the world-famous Royers Cafe, a local institution known for its hearty fare and welcoming atmosphere. Afterward, they had the chance to shop the square, exploring the unique boutiques and galleries that make Round Top a destination in its own right. The day concluded with a private tour of the Round Top Festival Institute, a cultural gem that offers a glimpse into the arts and history of the region.
The 2024 Wheels | Watches | Whiskey event was a resounding success, not just in attendance and fundraising but also in the quality of the experience it offered. With over 340 people in attendance, the event has firmly established itself as a must-attend gathering for those who appreciate the finer things in the Brazos Valley. Combining luxury cars, exquisite watches, and fine whiskey created a relaxed and refined atmosphere, allowing guests to mingle, shop, and sip at leisure.
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