Ferraris coming to Cd'A

COEUR d'ALENE - These Ferrari owners are out to show they're not a bunch with their noses in the air next to their expensive toys.

Members of the Northwest Region of the Ferrari Club of America will converge, with their cars of speed and luxury, on City Park on Saturday for the free "Ferraris in the Park" show from 9-11:45 a.m.

"These are enthusiasts who want people to ask about their cars," said Tom Sparks, event organizer and Ferrari owner. "Some even welcome children to sit in the car so their parents or grandparents can take a photo."

Sparks said there will be at least 20 Ferraris on display, and possibly a few other exotic cars.

"The chance to see that many Ferraris is a bit of a rarity," he said. "It's really a Ferrari event, but we're not excluding other exotic cars."

Sparks said it's intended to be a relaxed, family event. Car owners will emphasize to the youth the importance of staying in school.

"They want to use the cars to tell the message that anything can happen in life if you put your mind to it," said Sparks, whose Precision Pointe auto detail firm is sponsoring the show. "Many of the drivers are professional people who consider it an honor to speak with kids about setting goals and sticking with them.

"People will ask where the cars came from and what they're worth - and that's great - but the drivers will then steer back to the message of staying in school. The cars are a demonstration of what hard work can do."

Ferrari, founded by Enzo Ferrari in 1929 as Scuderia Ferrari and based in Maranello, Italy, moved into the production of street-legal vehicles in 1947. It has been known for its participation in racing, especially Formula One. The cars can range in value from $50,000 to $750,000, with many in the $300,000 range.

Show attendees will be invited to vote for their favorite cars.

Between 11:45 a.m. and noon, the cars will leave the park and be driven around Lake Coeur d'Alene.

Sparks said car owners from the coast enjoy coming to Coeur d'Alene for the show because the scenery is beautiful and the weather typically cooperates in July.

Sparks said the event has taken on a life of its own and will be expanded next summer to include other European cars for an All-European Sports Sunday at McEuen Park. It will also be a fundraiser for Children's Village.

"The clubs will be donating money for each car that comes," Sparks said.

Ferrari owners interested in showcasing their cars during Saturday's show can contact Sparks at 691-9694 or visit www.cavallinosincoeurdalene.com. There is no entry fee.