I've been jealous before, but this column really made me understand the word "covet!" Seriously, I really enjoyed it. I can't imagine having a one-on-one discussion with such a monumental figure, much less watching him race at Spa (my co-favorite track with Monaco) from a VIP smokers' tent. It's a shame that most people in America haven't even heard of his accomplishments. One small quibble: I think you were a bit confused by your friend's Ferrari. There is no such thing as a 308 GTO, much less one in 1978. In 1984, Ferrari introduced the very limited 288GTO, the spiritual successor to the 250GTO, and the progenitor of the F40, F50, and Enzo. By the way, I share his preference for 898's, but I lean toward the Ramon Allones version. Great article and great work.
By the cigars they smoke and the music they love, ye shall know the texture of men's souls. -John Galsworthy, The Forsyte Saga