Historics at Cavallino
One of the many historic race cars which competed at the Ferrari Shell Historic Challenge at Moroso Motorsports, January 22-27, 2008.
Racers Peter Giddings and Todd Morici were among the standout drivers in their group. In the Drum Group, Giddings races a Maserati 250F, a Grand Prix car once operated by the legendary Sir Stirling Moss. Though initially challenged during qualifying by Nick Soprano in a ‘57 Maserati 450S with a 5.7 liter V8 engine, Soprano suffered technical problems and failed to start. Giddings took an immediate lead and was initially pushed by Jon Shirley in his Maserati 300S. The field included Ed Davies (375 MM Spyder), Chuck Wegner (Maserati 200 SI), Peter LeSaffre (300S) and Leslie Davies' 250 TR close behind. Giddings took the checkered flag comfortably, followed by Shirley in second place. Other class winners were Peter Greenfield (Alfa Romeo 8C/35), Charlie Arnott (Ferrari 250 GT/TdF), Tom Mittler (Maserati A6GCS) and Mark Lindman (Ferrari 212 Inter).
Three Ferrari 512 BB/LMs dominated the Disc Brake Group. Todd Morici mirrored Giddings masterful driving ahead of Jim Fuchs and Chuck Wegner. Other historically significant race cars included three 250 GTOs, three 250 SWBs, a rare 275 GTB/C and a legendary 412 MI from the 1950s days of California racing. Morici benefited from a fine start and led every lap. Defending Disc champion Tom Price led the Berlinetta class in his GTO until he turned wide, allowing Peter LeSaffre, debuting his 275 GTB/C, to pass. LeSaffre took the class win.
Will Giddings and Morici continue to reign supreme or will renewed attempts from Soprano, Price and LeSaffer usher in a new regime? Come see for yourself at the next round in Road Atlanta, near Braselton, Georgia April 18-20. Just two weeks later, catch more action for the third event at the Infineon Raceway, near Sonoma, California.
Each event will also feature heated 430 Challenge action, along with the full possibilities of Ferrari VIP Hospitality for racers, fans and their guests. Challenge races provide enthusiasts easy access to the action both on the track and behind the scenes as this year's series promises unique thrills for all.