Ferrari Lover in Wisconsin

Hey guys/gals - my name is Kevin and I currently live in Wausau, WI - the middle of the state.

My passion for Ferrari's started back in 4th grade when I first saw a 308 GTB in Jane's Pocketbook of Cars and when Magnum PI came out, I watched every episode.

As a teen I used to go to Gentry Lane in Toronto (where I grew up) just to look at the cars. One time I asked the salesperson if they had any 308 GTSi's in and he said one was in the shop. I went back there and sure enough, it was sitting on a tow trailer. I asked the service manager if I could sit in it - he looked left and right, saw no one was paying attention - and let me sit in it. My first impression was the overwhelming aroma of Connolly leather - wow.

Fast forward to a few years ago where I got to know someone who owned a F355 Spider and offered me to take me for a spin if I ever stopped by. The day I stopped by he was too busy but handed me the keys and told me to bring it back in one piece. That was the first time I drove a Ferrari and the glorious sound of the V8 pipes in back was amazing. I recall turning a corner in what I thought would have caused lesser cars to roll over and scrape off the handles. The 355 took the corner without even breaking a sweat - I couldn't believe that this car could have such high limits. Of course I was extremely careful because I couldn't afford the mortgage to pay for repairs if I cracked it up.

Two years later, I was with a friend in Chicago who was helping the owner of Continental Motors bring some of his cars to Ferrari on Oak St. We got to take the Dino 246 GTS which was red with a black interior but in excellent condition. We took the top off and cruised back to my friend's place. That was a glorious night and a very rare treat. Even driving a Ferrari (I know, I know, it wasn't originally recognized) gently within legal limits is to be savored like sipping a fine wine of revered vintage.

Some day I hope to own an F-car even if it an old 308 GTSi quattrovalvole - every Ferrari has a story. But right now, my focus is on caring for my disabled son with spin bifida. If I never get to own a Ferrari because of all the medical bills, it still with be worth it and I was blessed to get to know some people who were willing to share their prized steeds.

It's great to have this community of F-car owners that share their experiences and their vehicles with us so my hat's off to you guys!