Bloomington Gold 2004

Sunday's highlight is Gold Certification. Over 100 Corvettes were present on the greens and fairways of Pheasant Run, all to be inspected by the most respected judges in the business. One judge, M.F. Dobbins, celebrated his 25th anniversary as a Gold judge, in this, the 25th year of Gold Certification. Over 80 Corvettes were Gold Certified. Eight Corvettes also received the Benchmark award, earning both Gold Certification and Survivor status, then completing a 40-mile road test.

Did the Burroughs magic work? Of the people attending the show who were surveyed, 89 percent said Bloomington Gold met or exceeded their expectations. Fully 40 percent of the people attending were from outside Illinois; 25 percent were from outside the Midwest. And 40 percent attending were women, with many coming solo. Clearly, the "Granddaddy" is hardly old and in the way. And next year, David Burroughs shoots for 100 percent customer satisfaction.

Bloomington GoldHall Of Fame Inductees1963 Sting Ray Z06 Coupe1966 427/390hp Convertible1967 427/400hp Coupe1969 427/430hp L88 Coupe1988 Callaway B2K 35th Anniversary Coupe1991 Callaway IMSA Super Car Racer

Changes Planned for 2005No event is perfect, and Bloomington Gold 2004 is no exception. But just days after the 2004 show ended, CEO David Burroughs announced changes to address those complaints.

No. 1 was the long wait to enter the show, especially on Saturday. "Numerous remedies are already in the works for 2005," said Burroughs. "Gates will open early to avoid pent-up demand, at least two or three entrances will be utilized, the involvement of police and city officials will increase significantly, and on-grounds flow will be redesigned and re-routed."

The new Food Park was a great hit, but there were often long lines. "The number and quality of concessionaires will be increased as well as the seating in and around the Food Park in order to satisfy the demand," said Burroughs.

Finally, a broken water main in the resort rendered many restrooms useless during the show, but even when functioning, restrooms were difficult to find. "The number of restroom facilities [and signage to find them] will be increased as well," Burroughs remarked.

Perfection is Dave Burroughs' goal, nothing less.