[Renlady]

My journey to my Cobra was an odd one. I've been a closet car geek for years, but it's more that I know what I like, but I'm not able to rattle off all the specs (after learning that this frightened the boys rather than getting them to like me). And I never, ever, thought I would own more than a traditional sedan or truck. But that was before.

I can't remember when I first saw a Cobra, but I'm always looking for them now. But the obsession really started at the Chicago Auto Show over 5, maybe 6, years ago. The local Superformance dealership had a display there, with a light blue with dark blue striped one in pride of place above all the others (my perfect color combination). Nothing else caught my eye that day and I walked in circles to constantly come back to it. For more than 3 years, if you asked me what I wanted, asked me to guess what you saw that day, asked me any question in general, and my answer would have been "Shelby Cobra?". It was driving my husband crazy. Take me to any other car show, have me test drive any other beautiful performance car available, and I would shrug and say, "yep, it's a car". I was addicted. Then one random day, my husband had gone to the dealership for a tune-up clinic, only to find a Superformance MKIII sitting in the elevator, waiting to be put on display. Needless to say, one test drive and I wouldn't let it go. My hands shook uncontrollably while writing the check, while the smile on my face couldn't be removed by anything.

There is just something about a Cobra. For me, it has it all. The classic look, the curves, the feel, the sound of the roaring engine. It was love at first sight. I love driving it any chance I get. I have now learned more about the history of the car and of Carroll Shelby, and am learning to recognize the slight differences between the different types.

I do have two regrets. I regret I never got to meet Carroll Shelby in person. And I regret that I never took the time or trusted any delivery company to safely ship my dashboard to Carroll to sign. And I am deeply sorry I will no longer get the chance to do either of these.

I too will tie a black ribbon to my roll bar and remember the man and the history of these cars while I enjoy the freedom of the open road. RIP Mr. Shelby and thank you for these awesome vehicles.

And thank you to this forum for letting me share my story.
Kate