Participants and visitors at the thirteenth annual Palm Beach Cavallino Classic had a particularly fine array of Ferraris to enjoy, ranging from one of the earliest models produced, a 166 Spyder Corsa, to the very latest, the 612 Scaglietti, in beautiful hot weather over six days in sunny Florida. In 2003, the weather had been distinctly cool for part of the time, as the periphery of a cold front that was freezing the northern states encompassed much of Florida. However, although the north of the country was experiencing similar conditions again this year, much to everyone’s relief the front didn’t come far enough south to affect Florida.

Activity began immediately for those who could brave the cold no more and who came down early, for Tuesday saw the opening of Moroso Motorsports Park for the start of two private test days. Twenty two drivers at the start, and then thirty drivers on Wednesday, arrived from around the country to have several exclusive days with the track all to themselves. There are no speed restrictions these two days, and you will find many drivers seriously getting the most out of their Ferraris, and other drivers preparing their cars for the Historic Challenge, so the activities on track are always interesting, what with the surprising assortment of machinery being pulled off the trailers. Famous GT driver Bill Adam continued his popular role as watchdog and father confessor to the group, as you can’t fool an ol’ racer. All ran safely and well.

Tuesday and Wednesday are also set-up days at the track for the various owners and teams with their rigs, and this is where your more astute dealers are to be found, along with your more dedicated data collectors, since here is where you can peek into the unloading trucks and obtain a glimpse of what everyone brought. In addition, the owners, mechanics, and restorers are in a more relaxed mood, and much business gets done. 

Wednesday evening saw a new affair at the Classic, an intimate gathering at The Breakers for everyone who had arrived by now. What with Thursday following being a big day for all sorts of activities both on and off track, there were now many participants and guests in the area, and this new meet-and-greet party was very well attended indeed. It also gave everyone a chance to see all the Ferrari artwork on display from the invited artists, and a good portion of the event’s art was sold that evening.