In celebration of more than 50 years of passion and heritage in the North American market, as well as its own significant California legacy, Ferrari of North America made its mark in San Francisco yesterday as an owner's brigade of more than 60 of its most unique vehicles thundered across the Golden Gate Bridge. At precisely noon on August 17th, Ferrari will expand its rich U.S. history to include this special procession along the world-renown landmark, and continue into the City to receive a Proclamation from Mayor Newsom at the St. Francis Yacht Club.

The Ferrari procession along the Golden Gate Bridge was the culmination of a 4-day Ferrari owners' rally, in which both collectible and modern day Ferraris compete in time, distance and accuracy categories while travelling between 200-300 miles per day. With more than 50 entrants, competing cars included such collectibles as a 1955 Ferrari 166; 1963 Ferrari 250 GT/L and a 1958 250 PF Coupe, along with several more current limited production models such as an Enzo and two Superamericas. Now in its 8th year, the annual Rally provides an extension of the many experiences and assets Ferrari provides its exclusive customer base.

According to Marco Mattiacci, vice president of marketing for Ferrari North America, the brand's exclusivity extends far past its limited product volume and due to its rich heritage in design, performance, technology and craftsmanship, can offer its owners rare and unique experiences that the competition cannot. "We have a very unique stance in the marketplace," concedes Mattiacci.
 

"With 65% of our customer base acquired through return owners, we make it a point to continuously provide our clients with experiences throughout the world that no other can provide," he concludes.

While California remains Ferrari's largest North American market, the brand's history within the State was additionally enriched by many early racing victories earned by drivers such as Phil Hill, Dan Gurney and Richie Ginther. And the California setting itself provided inspiration that became a reality with products like the 1957 250 California Spyder -- thus fostering the beginnings of a great love affair between U.S. enthusiasts and the elegant prancing horse icon. Throughout the years, Ferrari milestones have been recognized through unique experiences and settings. Most recently, the Empire State Building was lit in "Ferrari Red" to commemorate the company's 50th anniversary in North America.

Ferrari North America, Inc., based in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., has 36 dealers nationwide and is the exclusive distributor of the Ferrari 430 Coupe and Spider, 612 Scaglietti, 575 Maranello and Super America. Ferrari vehicles are handcrafted and designed in Maranello, Italy.