The Jamaica Classic Car Club (JCCC) has ushered in a new era of leadership following its annual general meeting and elections held on February 22 at Curphey Place, St Andrew. Shane Angus, a seasoned figure within the organization, has been elected as the club’s new president, succeeding Naresh Potopsingh.
Expressing his enthusiasm about the membership’s support, Angus revealed his strategic vision for the JCCC. “We have assembled a purpose-driven executive team with individuals specifically suited for their roles. This alignment is poised to bring significant positive transformation to the club,” Angus stated in an interview with the Jamaica Observer’s weekly Auto magazine.
The newly constituted executive leadership includes Nigel McFarlane as First Vice-President, Gerald Cameron as Second Vice-President, Dwight Burchell as Treasurer, Paul Gammon as Assistant Treasurer, Marcel Brandon as Secretary, and Rick Chang as Assistant Secretary. The broader executive committee comprises twelve dedicated members: Wade Marsh, Rae Parchment, Neville Marsh, Raymond Shields, Courtney Thompson, Nicholas Chang, Vivian Mitchell, Kyle Jaisingh-Byles, Cressmore White, Douglas Ewbanks, Richard Hylton, and Denesh Baboolal.
Angus, who previously presided over the club from 2013 to 2019, maintained his involvement with the executive committee even during his time overseas. His permanent return to Jamaica in 2025 marks a full reengagement with the JCCC’s mission. He assumes leadership of a club reported to be in robust financial and operational health, as highlighted by outgoing president Potopsingh. The former president’s report noted the club’s current status of being fully updated on all obligations, positioning it ideally for future expansion. Potopsingh also highlighted the club’s strengthened media presence and a notable increase in youth participation at events, thanking members for their support during his tenure.
Key challenges identified for the incoming administration include addressing issues surrounding back licences for long-term vehicle projects, advocating for a flat registration fee for classic cars, and streamlining the re-registration process for vehicles lacking original documentation. Angus has augmented these priorities with his own ambitious goals: securing a permanent physical headquarters for the JCCC and reinvigorating the club’s core identity as a community for classic car enthusiasts. This involves re-engaging former members and assisting them in restoring and returning their vehicles to the road. A clubhouse would provide a vital social and administrative hub for both existing and prospective members.
The meeting also served as an occasion to honor distinguished members. Raymond Shields was awarded the prestigious Clubman of the Year trophy, acknowledging his dedicated participation. Awards for outstanding service were presented to Gerald Cameron, Winston Marshall, and Gregory Webster. Brian Madden was recognized as the outstanding club member, while Shane Angus and Michael McFarlane were bestowed the title of Global Ambassador for their contributions.