Hello and thank you for the warm welcome. If there’s one thing automotive that I do know a thing or two about it’s quality auto blogs that truly have something worthwhile reading. Having said that I must say it is an honor to be included in The Garage.

It seems everyone has his or her own feeling as to what they personally find appealing when talking cars. On the other hand I have found that those who truly have a love affair for all things automotive find everything and anything to do with cars fascinating and interesting. After all, if it were not for the likes of Henry Ford and Louis Chevrolet how interesting would the history and rivalry of the automobile be? Oh sure, there used to be a day when you wouldn’t dare tell someone his Chevrolet couldn’t beat your Ford or vise versa and if you did you had better be ready to draw a line in the sand because you were about to get it on. Fortunately, today I find more and more of that way of thinking taking a back seat to those who truly love the heritage of all makes and brands. Today it’s not uncommon at all to see two gentleman standing side by side admiring the late model cars that have the flavor of older vintage rides but with late model technology under the hoods and suspension to match. It’s great to reminisce with others without fear of someone being offended and at the same time being able to share stories… “Hey, Let me tell ya about the time I was running down Highway 101 when this Chevy tried to pass me…”

Having a respect for what others find impressive, engaging or captivating is all part of the love affair with automobiles and racing and can be good for one’s soul as well. No matter whether it’s a couple guys cruising the strip looking for chicks or for a race or a gathering of well dressed enthusiast at the Pebble Beach Concourse D’Elegance or taking the wife for a ride in Grandp’s old Model A, everyone has their personal reasons for their attraction to cars.

Not too long ago while my wife and I were in Southern California for the weekend we were walking across the street to our hotel after a nice dinner. It was a nice Friday evening as we entered the cross-walk a young guy came to a stop just in front of us in a Falcon Sprint. The car was painted primer gray, had some chrome rims, exhaust was leaking and to say it needed some attention would be putting it mildly. On the other hand it was washed and it was obvious someone really loved that car. As we came closer we could see his girlfriend sitting close to him between the bucket seats. Parked next to them were some other “kids cars” with the usual high dollar rims, loud sound systems, wild paint jobs and so on and also with their dates. I told my wife, “Hey check out that Falcon Sprint. That’s a cool ride and one I wouldn’t mind having.” Remember when I told you how cool they are?” As soon as we got close enough my wife gave the kid in the Falcon a big thumb’s up and said, “My husband really loves your car.” I won’t ever forget that kid’s face. He lit up like a Christmas tree, sat up straight in his seat and said to his date, “See… I told you so. LOTS of people know what kind of car this baby is!” It really made his day and boy was he proud.

The bottom line is, there are many reasons to love a car. It could be something you saw on TV as a kid, it may have been your favorite uncle’s car or a personal experience but whatever it is that turns you on, it’s special and everyone deserves to share that feeling and respect with other car folks. I am looking forward to reading more on The Garage and hearing what others have to say as well so once again, thank you for including me and California’s Best Racing Team. Be sure and keep up on the latest as we proceed for the upcoming La Carrera Panamericana race in Mexico and please feel free to post your comments.

Best regards, Gary Faules