FCA Int'l Meet - Toronto

Hi,

Is anyone planning on driving to the FCA event in Toronto this coming summer? (July 9-13).

 

Well sure. Dave Bendl and I will be going for sure. We have driven together to the last two. This will be my 5th in a row that I have driven to.

Norbert

 

My girlfriend and I are thinking of going. She is from Toronto and have Family there, so we could kill two birds with one stone. The only problem is going on a long trip with two people in my 328 GTS. No place for luggage. So, i may have to use my enclosed trailer i have and trailer my car there and then drive it after we get there... Hmmm???? Wonder if i can get across the border with it and through customs??? HAH!

So, we are considering going, all depends on both our work schedules during that time frame, ect...... Will know for sure the closer the date......

Tod

 

I would also like to go and drive the 328. However, I need to see if I can plan other things around the event.

 

You got a boot, you can store behind the seats and under your GF's knees (one small bag). AND you have the space in the front. Just throw out that stupid spare tire. And while you're at it, get rid of the wiper fluid. That's what I did and luggage room is no longer issue.

However driving to Toronto in July with no real A/C is not something I'm willing to endure.

 

Well, I don't want to jinx myself, by the 348 has great AC so we're OK on that front. Our problem is the windows don't go down so we need to open the door to pay the tolls. On the packing issue, we already figured this out. We're going to ship clothes to the Hilton in Toronto. Also, their is a CART race in Toronto on the 4th,5th and 6th so there is something else to get you there before the event.

 

I don't know if you saw this yet, but here is a quick way to fix those windows.

Check this inexpensive solution out...

http://boards.fool.com/Message.asp?mid=26270184

 

John, that is too funny....

 

Wow - and I was going to buy the parts from Rodney today to fix the windows. Good thing I saw this video.

 

Jeff,
Great thread, and thanks for posting. Yes, I will be driving my Boxer to Toronto for the event. This is my favorite annual event and here's what I know about it so far:
If you want to view a "teaser" site on the event see: http://fca2008.org

Full details are not listed, but the host hotel will be the Hilton Suites Toronto/Markham Conference Centre & Spa. See http://www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/YYZAPHF-Hilton-Suites-Toronto-Markham-Conference-Centre-Spa-Ontario/index.do

The field concours will be held at the Eagles Nest Golf Course See http://www.eaglesnestgolf.com/ in Richmond Hills Toronto only a short distance from the host hotel.

The track event will be held at Mosport see http://www.mosport.com/home/home.asp

I contacted the host hotel this morning and checked to see if I could make a reservation, so I did. The FCA has rooms blocked out for members with a "special rate". Even though this is a four star hotel the special rate is $199 CAD/night plus taxs. Rather pricey. There regular rate is $280 CAD. None the less I booked it as the host hotel usually gets sold out quickly. Once I look into other options I can always cancel the reservation.
There are other options. There are many hotels in the area, and from what I can see, far more reasonable.

Having another Ferrari along, or even several just increases the "fun factor". Norbert & I have had loads of fun driving to Chantilly, Va in 2006 and Corning, NY last year. The only real close call we had was nearly having "a bad discussion" with a Amish carriage on a lonely stretch of road in upstate NY. I never realized just how slow they are until that experience.

Dave

 

Hi,

We have our reservations for the hotel and are looking forward to the trip. We're probably going to take a scenic drive through Michigan on our way there and leave about 3 days before the event. We're both looking forward to it.

Thanks for the links.

 

+1 There are others right down the road for $50 less. What would be the draw to stay at the Hilton Convention Center? The Concours is at the golf course, and the track is a bit of a drive. Am I missing something?

Jeff, glad to hear you are going.

 

Hi,

I travel A LOT (headed to Aus and NZ tomorrow) and can stay at the Hilton on points. That is the only reason we're staying there, otherwise we would look for something else.

 

Made reservations at the Hilton as well. Can change plans later,...............or stay there. It is only money and I can't take it with me.
I may also have my navigator with me this trip.

 

John,
I agree with you. The host hotel is great just for convenience since the mercato, helpdesk, and seminars are held there. I'm open to other options, and I'll bet if we look into it further we can locate one.
Dave

 

This should be great! Can't wait

 

Tod,

You could box up and ship UPS (insured), the bulk of the clothing to the hotel or relatives house and carry only what is needed for the duration of the driving.

Bill

 

I live in the east end of Toronto and will be heading up to the meet on at least 1 of the days. I am right near the major hwy (401) that you guys will be taking to Mosport. If you guys want I can put on a bbq and beer one night at my place on your way back to the city. If anyone is interested just let me know. Frank

 

Hey Dave.....
Do you think you will have any border issues with the boxer. I was looking into attending, but from some things i read i thought i may run into border issues, regarding the gray market cars. Do you know anything more on that?

David

 

I cannot wait! I REALLY want to see an FXX... JohnnyS will you be taking yours? Lol it will be fun!

-Dan

 

Yep, it is all ready. Just needs a good engine washing and one more waxing to reduce air drag.

 

Taken from the Red Green Show, quite funny... silly as hell !!!

 

No but seriously, anybody know how many FXX there will be?

 

Here are a few shots of our trip today. Started out fine, then got very wet. Finally arrived in sunshine so we can see all the road dirt we must clean off in the morning.
Image Unavailable, Please Login
Image Unavailable, Please Login
Image Unavailable, Please Login
Image Unavailable, Please Login

 

Head out to Islington (my home town). There is/was a great restaurant in an old fort(I believe French) somewhere around there.

Though I can't remember its name, it was down by the river.