Monterey 2010: Carroll Shelby tribute at The Quail

Every year, the Quail Motorsports Gathering selects a few major automotive themes to celebrate. Carroll Shelby is a 2010 honoree in recognition of his contributions to American motorsports. "Carroll Shelby is one of America's great success stories. He has been a World War II aviator, a champion racecar driver, winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans amongst other races and a legendary automobile designer," said show co-founder Gordon McCall about The Quail's decision to feature Shelby. "It is important to celebrate his passion and ingenuity that is an inspiration for Americans and motorsports enthusiasts alike."

Several significant Shelby automobiles were on display, perhaps none more so than the first Shelby Cobra ever built. There were also multiple GT350 R models, including the first one produced, plus the very first 1965 GT350, a 1965 GT350 drag car (one of three made), the one-off 1967 GT500 SS, a 1966 GT350 Convertible (one of four made) and many more pristine Cobras and Mustangs. You can see all of the Shelbys at the Quail Motorsports Gathering in the high-res gallery below. Keep visiting Autoblog throughout the day for more ongoing coverage from Monterey.

Photos copyright ©2010 Drew Phillips / AOL