That SG was a beautiful MINI, Sherry :).
I put my deposit down in June 2001 (very first) and bought my first one in April 2002 along with Mugami 8). It was a pre-spec'd car from MINIUSA and something like the 21st or 22nd car sold at Crown.
Took delivery of my 2nd MINI in May 2003.
Visited MINI Oxford factory and JCW showroom September 2004.
Now on my 3rd MINI which I took delivery of in August 2006 :D
I knew you had an early one Mike, but I didn't realize how early. :)