It may seem odd to modern-day Ferrari owners, but Enzo Ferrari, founder of the epic luxury race car company, was a reserved man. It is one of the odd dichotomies of our world that a man whose personal life was marked by quietness would create one of the most obvious symbols of wealth and excess.
Yet therein lies one of the secrets that makes Ferrari one of the most misunderstood of all brands, while equally contributing to its near century long success.
Ferraris have become a symbol of excess; a clear demarcation line is drawn between those who have and those who have not. Or so popular, jealous convention would have us believe. Ferraris, along with their Lamborghini, Alfa Romeo and Aston Martin brothers, conjure jests involving fears of sexual inadequacy or mid-life crises.
While these cultural biases may have some basis in fact, most Ferrari owners would smile and laugh the light chortle of someone who knows differently.
For Ferrari owners, it is about the majesty of the machine and the artistry of design. Get behind the wheel of one of these machines, be it a classic 275 GTS or a modern F512 M, and you will begin to understand why organizations like the Ferrari Club of Las Vegas exist.
Originally founded 50 years ago, the Ferrari Club of America brought together “like-minded individuals to preserve the automobiles and keep them original,” says Paul Hesselgesser, president of the Las Vegas chapter of the club.
“YOU DON’T EVEN NEED TO OWN A FERRARI TO JOIN. ALL THAT IS REQUIRED IS A LOVE AND APRECIATION FOR THE AUTOMOBILE.”
“We are friendly and low-key and make every attempt to limit politics,” says Hesselgesser. “You don’t even need to own a Ferrari to join. All that is required is a love and appreciation for the automobile.”
Appreciation and love for the amazing craftsmanship of the Ferrari is easy to acquire, and once the bite has taken root, it is natural and healthy to want to socialize with “like-minded individuals.”
The modest annual membership fee grants members three distinct benefits.
“First, we hold monthly socials at various restaurants around the Valley,” explains Hesselgesser about gatherings at which members can watch Formula 1 races and cheer on their favorite drivers.
Secondly, the club also organizes “technical sessions with our friends at Penske-Wynn Ferrari,” where owners can learn about their automobiles and network on all aspects of owning, preserving and caring for these stallions of the roadways.
Lastly, the organization meets several times a year for drives to Mount Charleston, the Valley of Fire and other scenic locales. After all, Ferrari’s are meant to be driven.
Members even can take part in Track Days at Spring Mountain Motorsports Ranch, where they can drive their own cars and even drive authentic Ferrari racing cars. That perk alone may be worth the annual fee.
Golfers have their country clubs, doctors and lawyers have their professional associations and Ferrari owners have the Ferrari Club of America.
But the organization is about more than just the cars. It is about the people, and when passionate people of means gather, good things often can result.
“In celebration of the Ferrari Club’s 50th anniversary, we have made a push to get more involved with charitable organizations,” says Hesselgesser.
The organizing principles behind the club offers proof that stereotypes and popular beliefs often cloud reality. Far from being snobby and exclusive, the organization is a place to share and learn, a place to express passion and discover the thrills and joys of life.To that end, the Las Vegas chapter of the Ferrari Club of America has chosen the Ronald McDonald House as its charity.
Despite his quiet life, one has to believe that Enzo would be proud.
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