Driving towards the pits of the Dubai Autodrome the day began to lose its light, as the circuit’s floodlights blink into action. The shutters to a number of pit garages raise up and in come 18 Ferraris for the start of the very first Ferrari track day, organised by the Ferrari Owners Club UAE under the guidance of new Club president Fred Kamperman, who is zipping around from pit to pit like his pants are on fire.

While the drivers get stuck into their driver briefing, I take the time to sniff around the static thoroughbreds; the roll call of Italians including the 348GTB, 355 Spider, 360 Modena (coupe and spider), F430 (coupe and spider), 550 Maranello and 599 GTB

Floodlights on full, the Club Circuit open, helmets on, wristbands in place and a stern briefing logged in the cranium and all the cars, drivers and passengers were good to go. For a first event I must say it looks like a rather well-organised affair. A slight pang of jealousy washes over me, as they all fire up in unison, but I soon forget what I wa sbothered about as the spectacle of these fine fillies (of all shapes and colours) charge down the pit straight - nose to tail - raises the heckles. If you own a Ferrari, a pair of loafers and a designer watch I recommend you get on the phone and sign up as a club member. Everyone seems friendly, relaxed and totally and utterly mad about Ferraris. So as soon as someone joins the club with an F40, F50 or Enzo, I’ll be back in a flash

The club is open to current and past Ferrari owners from inside and outside the UAE. Anybody who is interested in joining the club can contact Fred on: fkamperm@emirates.net.ae