Article by Brian Akre
July’s First Sunday Drive represented a few “firsts” for me and my 1997 SL 500: It was my first club event since returning to the USA after 14 years living in Europe; it was my car’s first trip to the beautiful Northern California coast; and my first chance to meet some of the local section members.
And I wasn’t the only new member. We were also joined by Daniel Thengvall and his white 2016 AMG G63, and Steven Dang and his bright green 2018 GT R Coupe.
The day started out with a quick breakfast and coffee at the monthly cars-and-coffee in Menlo Park. As I approached, my first thought was, “Wow, this is quite a turnout for the First Sunday Drive!” Then I saw the vintage Porsches, Corvettes, T-Birds, and Mustangs and realized this was just a great starting point. John Goode was there as we pulled up to greet us and provide directions.
After a quick breakfast and a cup of coffee, our small group took off toward the coast, mostly along the twisty, forested state Hwy 84. While it was a bit cloudy, misty, and cool for a July morning, the road was uncrowded save for a few cyclists. The driving was great.
At Hwy 1, we headed south toward Davenport and a delicious lunch and conversation about cars (what else?). This is a gorgeous section of the Cabrillo Highway, with plenty of pullouts for taking in the coastal scenery, which we took advantage of on the return trip.
I am looking forward to the next First Sunday Drive!
