The Cavallino Classic-A celebration of everything Ferrari.

Deep in the heart of winter, Florida's Gold Coast becomes the “Center of the Universe” for Ferrari fanatics as thousands of Tifosi turn out for the Cavallino Classic. Based in Palm Beach, Prancing Horse aficionados converge on the resort town that is also an island for a four-day convention celebrating the art of a certain Italian automobile.

While there was a preponderance of rosso corsa (race red) on the greens, the objects of Enzo's intentions displayed a surprisingly vivid pallet that ranged from silver to yellow, to blue metallic and even Dennis Nicotra's inspiring 1953 matte black-finished 166MM, making its debut after an extensive restoration. Following a rather competitive 1954 race season, the car was refinished in time for the 1955 Brussels Motor Show, where it was displayed on the stand of the Oblin Coachworks Company.

Now in its 22nd year, the Cavallino Classic continues its tradition of debuting newly restored or recently discovered barn-finds of significance to collectors. With base camp set at the iconic Breakers Hotel, exhibitors and show goers take part in road rallies, the Concorso d'Eleganza on the lawn at the Breakers, and the concluding Classic Sports Sunday at Mar-a-Lago.

Classic Ferrari racecars are also given the chance to stretch their legs at the track days held at Palm Beach International Raceway. Jim Fuchs of Milwaukee brought his 1980 512 BBLM, while Ed and Leslie Davies of nearby Hobe Sound, FL., drove their 1962 250 GTO and 1961 250 SWB Comp, respectively, to and from the track.

Cavallino founder and publisher John Barnes, Jr., offers how “The Cavallino Classic is about Ferrari owners coming together in Palm Beach to enjoy their cars and friends. We have friends bringing their cars from Mexico, and Canada and even from Europe, where it is quite cold this time of year. It's more than just a gathering of valuable cars. What is really valuable are the times the cars allow their owners to experience.”

By Mark Elias