Gary Bennett

Gary Bennett began buying and selling collectible automobiles in 1971 with the Leake Auction Company, founded by James C. Leake Sr. seven years earlier. After decades in the industry, including 17 as vice president of Barrett-Jackson auctions, Bennett has returned to lead where he began.

"I am so excited to be back in my hometown of Tulsa, leading Leake Auction Company into the next stage of its history as a pioneer in the collector car industry," said Gary Bennett, general manager, new ventures and sectors (collector cars) of Ritchie Bros.

"Tulsa is a special place and Leake is a special company and with the strength of Ritchie Bros. as our owner, we expect to accomplish some amazing things here in Oklahoma and around the country. We aren't resting on our laurels. Our next auction in Tulsa in June should not be missed."

While at Barrett-Jackson, Bennett oversaw the consignment, bidder, guest services and insurance divisions. He expanded the company from annual events to quarterly events, as well as implementing strategic campaigns to increase attendance at its auctions. Now at Leake, Bennett plans to expand the company's auctions to Florida and Arizona, as well as online-only auctions through Ritchie Bros.' online brand IronPlanet.com.

The company's next three day auction will be held at Tulsa's River Spirit Expo on June 6 to 8.

"We had more than 700 vehicles on the auction block in Tulsa last June," said Bennett. "We encourage interested sellers to contact us early to make sure they get a chance to sell in this auction. The earlier you consign the more time we have to market your vehicle to the world."

For more information about the upcoming Tulsa auction, becoming a registered bidder or consigning a vehicle, call 918/254-7077 or visit LeakeCar.com. Admission is $20 for adults; $15 for seniors; $7 for children under 12; and free for military with ID. Online bidding in the auction will be available via IronPlanet.com.

About Leake Auction Company

Leake Auction Company was established by James C. Leake Sr. and is America's first collector car auction. Currently Leake conducts auctions in Tulsa, Oklahoma City and Dallas. In January 2018, Leake was acquired by Ritchie Bros.

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