Sebring, April 8, 2001
Once again, Ferrari Club of America Florida Region President David Bobe invited me to
attend the annual "Sebring Spring Spectacular" at the Sebring International Raceway
April 6-8.
An excellent program of on-track and social activities was assembled by David and
Maggie Bobe along with sponsors Rosso Courso, U.S. Magnagas, Jupiter Auto Spa and
Tubi Exhaust Systems which kept members (and official photographer) busy.
Unlike last year at Sebring when rain storms (and brief tornado) cut short on-track
activities, FCA members were greeted with warm and sunny weather throughout the
entire weekend under blue Central Florida skies. Afternoon temperatures above 90F did
not dampen the enthusiasm of members as lapping sessions continued throughout
Friday and Saturday.
Over 100 members arrived at Sebring with various Ferrari equipment for lively lapping
sessions around the historic 3.7 mile road course home for the Exxon Superflo12 Hours
of Sebring presented by Dodge.
Road Ferrari models included 512-TRs, 360 Modenas, 308s, 328s, F-40s, 550
Maranellos, Mondials, 348s, Daytonas and a very impressive showing of 355s. Racing
models included a pristine 333-SP entered by Classic Coach as well as prototype
entries from Steve Patterson and Larry Setsma.
After two days of on track events, many members sported very impressive sunburns by
cocktail hour in the bar of the Chateau Elan Hotel and Spa. The hotel is conveniently
located on track grounds and was the social gathering point for members in the very
nice bar and lounge areas.
David hosted Saturday evening's banquet which featured cocktails by the swimming
pool and four course meal in the banquet room. Plaques were handed out to
participating sponsors and door prizes given to members. The evening concluded in the
hotel bar with live music and dancing which, according to a few, continued into the early
hours Sunday.
Sunday morning began early with a Concourso de Eleganza on the Chateau Elan
grounds which was won by the 1970 365 GT 2+2 of Nino Montopoli. Sunday morning
brunch was served in the banquet hall and the Concourso winning car was wheeled into
the room for all to see as Barber Dodge cars lapped the circuit creating very nice back
ground noise!
A great weekend was had by all. Participants came from as far away as Texas, New York
and Georgia to enjoy the "Sebring Spring Spectacular" and we look foward to see them
all again at the next track event at Moroso ("Maranello Madness!") in November.
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