Back to Back - PCA Space Coast Region

Published Quarterly By The Space Coast Region, Porsche Club Of America
May 2010 | Volume 4, Issue 2
Backat to
Back
the Rolex 24
Volume 5, Issue 4
Amelia Island Concours
A Track Day With Derek Bell
48 Hours of Sebring
November 2011
INSIDE
Rennsport Reunion IV | Oktoberfest | Autocross | PBIR DE
In
This
Issue
President’s
Column
Finishing a Great Year and New Beginnings
2011 has been another spectacular year for members of Space Coast
Region. SPC hosted 60 events during the calendar year. Almost 100 days
of activities were available to our members through the racing, driver
education, rallies, and autocrosses offered through our neighboring
regions. This level of activity is almost unprecedented within the PCA.
Space Coast’s total membership continues to grow, increasing by 8%
this year to 753 primary and family members, and is up by 63% since
2006. The support of Porsche of Melbourne continues to be a key factor
in our success. SPC sent over 50 members to the 56th Annual Porsche
Parade in Savannah and came home with a number of trophies and a
1st Place ranking for Escape Velocity.
Space Coast Region also made history this year. We scored a Panorama
cover in August; featuring Ralph Fritsche’s 993 parked aside the Space
Shuttle Atlantis. Largely through the efforts of Vice President Steve
Hoffman and his contacts at NASA, two of SPC’s logo pins flew on
STS-135, the final flight of Atlantis and the Space Shuttle program. The
journey of the pins is documented in the November issue of Panorama.
The Porsche Museum has requested that one of the pins make a visit to
Stuttgart for an extended display.
A dozen Space Coasters traveled to Laguna Seca Raceway for Rennsport
Reunion IV. Their stories in this issue of EV attempt to document the
experiences at the greatest gathering of historic racing Porsches ever
held. SPC’s Oktoberfest attracted approximately 130 participants from
five neighboring regions, and included twelve cars from the 356 Florida
Owners Group. Bob Dewey received the inaugural Kirk Stowers
Memorial Trophy in memory of our long-time Treasurer and FOG’s
five-time Past President.
A new year is upon us and the schedule, as usual, is packed with events
including Zonefest 2012 which SPC Region will host for the first time
on April 20-22 in Vero Beach. We need your help to ensure the quality
and pace of events is maintained. Please let any one of our officers
know if you have an interest in supporting the production of these
multi-regional events. Thanks to all of you for making my first year so
enjoyable. Best wishes for the upcoming holidays.
Drive with Passion,
David O’Neal
Autocross School
page 5
Fall Autocross
page 7
Oktoberfest
page 8-9
Autocross Challenge
page 10
Aerodynamics KK
page 11
Rennsport Reunion IV
page 12-15
Porsche Factory Expansion
page 19
Tech Column
page 20
From the DE Instructor
page 21
Classifieds
page 22
TRG/Adobe Road Winery
page 23
Christmas Party
page 24
Election of Officers
page 25
Goodie Shop
page 26
Zonefest 2012
page 27
Driver Education
page 28-29
Coming Attractions
page 30
Member Spotlight
page 31
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On the cover: Porsche 917s dive through the
corkscrew at Laguna Seca during Rennsport
Reunion IV. Photo by David O’Neal.
volume 5, Issue 4
1405 Flightline Blvd, #21, DeLand, FL 32724
(386)256-9146
Visit www.914RS.com for more information
1405 Flightline Blvd., #21, DeLand, FL 32724
President
David O’Neal
[email protected]
407.808.6461
Vice President
Steve Hoffman
[email protected]
321.506.6054
Secretary
John “Blake” Blakely
[email protected]
321.213.1203
Treasurer
Tom Kirk
[email protected]
321.591.2223
Membership
Brian Reinert
[email protected]
321.298.0089
Past President
Ralph Fritsche
[email protected]
321.289.9051
North Region Coordinator
Mike Masters
[email protected]
386.290.7479
Tech Coordinators
Ralph Fritsche
[email protected]
321.289.9051
South Region Coordinator
David Kelly
[email protected]
772.713.4084
Shelby Goode
[email protected]
321.632.2432
Skill Event Coordinators
Jonathan Parker
[email protected]
321.751.9032
Tom Kirk
[email protected]
321.591.2223
Social Event Coordinators
Andre Martineau
[email protected]
321.427.5619
Ron Menck
[email protected]
321.243.5356
Touring Coordinators
Brian Reinert
[email protected]
321.298.0089
David LaPorte
[email protected]
321.403.2500
Classic Coordinator
Ralph Fritsche
[email protected]
321.289.9051
Our
Officials
Parade Coordinator
Ron McCall
[email protected]
386.589.0879
2012 Zonefest Chair
EV Editor
Lou Linden
Ginny O’Neal
[email protected] [email protected]
321.474.5772
407.491.5810
Webmaster
Jonathan Parker
[email protected]
321.751.9032
Event Insurance Coordinator
David O’Neal
[email protected]
Webmaster Tech / Assistant
407.808.6461
Vivienne Davey
[email protected]
321.431.4404
volume 5, Issue 4
Charity Coordinator
Sue Tompkins
[email protected]
321.729.0234
EV Advertising
Jack Roberts
[email protected]
321.727.0046
Sponsorship Chair
Tom Gorsuch
[email protected]
321.626.0563
Space Coast Inaugural Autocross School
Article by Brian Reinert
Photos by Blake Blakely
On Saturday, September 10th, approximately 40 drivers participated
in our first Autocross School. This was an exciting event for us as
our very own Space Coast Region member Geoffrey Lowdermilk
served as the Chief Instructor. Geoffrey is a former factory driver for
Porsche (and also a certain Italian car company). He has raced in the
Rolex series and the 12 and 24 hour Le Mans races. Instructors David
O’Neal and I assisted Geoffrey.
Finally, it was time for an actual autocross course. Geoffrey designed
a course to demonstrate elements common to most autocross
courses: a short straightaway, a slalom, a decreasing radius turn, and
a sweeping turn with a late apex. First, the drivers walked the course
which is an important element of autocrossing as it allows the driver
to study course components and develop a plan of attack. Instructors
then rode with students to offer personal coaching as each driver was
given the opportunity to practice the course.
After all the practice, drivers could no longer resist the urge to drive
the course for time! The best time of the day was accomplished by Jim
Hoffman. Second place went to Ken Marshall, and three drivers tied
for third place: Douglas Dieruff, Lou Linden and Ron Menck.
Students waiting
for their turn on the course
Our Chief Instructor
Geoffrey Lowdermilk
The Autocross School was open to all SPC members. This was the
first event for several new members, and many veterans were in
attendance as well. Two attendees even came out in their Cayennes!
Autocross is a great way for us to enjoy the performance of our
Porsches in a safe manner. Several autocrossing opportunities
are currently open for registration at register.pca.org. We invite all
members to come out and join the friendly competition as Space
Coast Region attempts to outscore Citrus Region.
No talking in class –
just listen and learn
The day began when Geoffrey spoke on the principles of autocross
driving. David O’Neal led a session for all first-timers on how to
prepare and stage for autocrossing. After the short classroom sessions,
it was time to get behind the wheel! Geoffrey started the drivers
with some threshold braking exercises - an important component
to successful autocrossing as it provides optimal braking ability. The
perfect amount of braking force is developed at the point where the
wheels just begin to slip. This braking is the opposite of daily street
driving and provides the best lap times. To accomplish threshold
braking, a driver must quickly and deeply brake at the onset of the
braking cycle. The driver then reduces the braking pressure later in
the cycle in order to settle the car.
Brian Reinert instructs Don Grainger
volume 5, Issue 4
volume 5, Issue 3
Autocross Season in Full Swing
Article by David O’Neal
Photo by Curt Dieterle
Our friends at Florida Citrus Region
(FLC) have resumed the autocross series,
culminating in the planned FLC/SPC
Autocross Challenge in December. On
October 1st, twelve Space Coast members
joined about thirty other drivers at the huge
parking lot of the Orange County Convention
Center for the first fall AX.
SPC fielded a number of AX rookies (R) at Be sure to register at register.pca.org for the
the event. Craig (R) and Lynda (R) Barrie, December 10th Autocross Challenge and
Curt and Victoria Dieterle, Lou Linden (R), Ladies Day. See you there!
Ken Marshall, Ron Menck (R), David and
Ginny O’Neal, and Rick Parrott made the
group drive from Rockledge. Doug Dieruff
represented the region as well. Ken Marshall’s
Carrera GTS made quite the auditory
impression with its deep throaty exhaust, but
It was apparent that the recent Autocross the Barrie’s Peridot Green Cayman R was the
School paid off for several of our members. car that captured everyone’s attention.
Mike Masters set one of the fastest times of
the day in his Carrera 4 on the course set to
favor the power of 911s. And, in her Boxster,
Victoria Dieterle placed first in the SL class. An overall great showing for Space Coast
with the following results: S1 – 1st and 2nd
S2 – 2nd and 3rd
SL – 1st and 3rd
Space Coasters taking that all important course walk
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Make fewer pit stops with a
visit to Zipper Urogynecology.
321.674.2114 | www.ZipperUroGyn.com
New Location: 1130 S. Harbor City Blvd., Melbourne
volume 5, Issue 4
Oktoberfest Concours and BBQ
Article by Steve Hoffman
Photos by Jennifer Barrows and David O’Neal
Space Coast Region, along with Florida Citrus Region and the 356
Florida Owner’s Group (FOG), hosted the 4th Annual Oktoberfest
at the picturesque F. Burton Smith Park in Cocoa on Saturday,
October 30th. Also in attendance were members from Suncoast and
Gold Coast Regions. The weather was absolutely perfect, as the mild
temperatures, light breezes, and sunny skies were a constant reminder
of why we are blessed to live where we do, especially this time of
year. We enjoyed our largest turnout ever with approximately 130
enthusiasts soaking up the atmosphere, participating or admiring the
concours cars, looking through the rare and hard to find items in the
swap meet, enjoying the authentic German cuisine, and enjoying the
company of the many friends in attendance - some old and some new.
We were honored to have our Zone 12 Representative Jennifer Barrows
in attendance along with her husband Greg. They have been regulars
at this event in the past and we always enjoy their participation. As
in prior years, we made the trip worthwhile by rewarding them and
their beautiful 968 with some hardware.
a tribute, we initiated the Kirk Stowers Memorial Trophy to the top
356 in the concours. The trophy will be engraved with the winner’s
name and remain on display at Porsche of Melbourne. It has a special
engraving recognizing Kirk for his contributions and spirit to both
clubs. “It is all about the fun” was one of Kirk’s favorite quotes and
one we all need to remember from time to time. Kirk’s wife Rosemary,
FOG Vice President Mark Koorland, and PCA National Treasurer
Tom Gorsuch shared some great stories about Kirk, before presenting
the trophy to the winner Bob Dewey. Bob was a very good friend of
Kirk’s, and it was clear that Bob felt honored to be the first recipient
of this prestigious award.
Head Chef John Vasconi with
his assistant David O’Neal
As in the past, the awards provided during the event, although
appealing in acknowledging the class and place of finish for each
winner, are artfully updated to include a photo of their car and
presented at our upcoming Holiday Party. Of course, you must be
present to receive the update, so if you have not already done so,
please go to register.pca.org to register for this annual year-end event.
The results of the concours are noted below.
356s awaiting the judges
This year we expanded the base for the event to include the 356 FOG
group. We have co-hosted events in the past, as we share a common
passion for all things Porsche. We share another special bond in that
a leader of both clubs, Kirk Stowers, was taken from us this year. As
Everyone enjoyed the authentic German cuisine
Thanks to all of the folks who participated in the swap meet. I saw
Porsche memorabilia, posters, lots of parts, back issues of Panorama
and Excellence, tons of scale models, plus other unique offerings.
volume 5, Issue 4
People’s Choice winner John Ross
with Steve Hoffman
He loves his GT3 - Brian Reinert’s
car ready for review
Events that allow this opportunity are becoming scarce, so we will
continue to hold the swap meet as part of this annual event.
Special thanks go out to all of the volunteers for the hard work that
makes these events so successful: Concours Judges Ralph Fritsche,
Alfred Marino, Lou Verdiales, Rick Parrott, Greg Barrows, Shelby
Goode, and Lou Linden; Head Chef John and Bertie Vasconi, Lynda
Barrie; our lovely registration crew Ginny O’Neal, Donna Linden,
and Robin Hoffman; and finally our President David O’Neal for comanaging this event.
We look forward to seeing you all at the Holiday Party and future
events.
Bob Dewey receives the Kirk Stowers Trophy
from Rosemary Lane and Tom Gorsuch
1st
2nd
3rd
1st 2nd 3rd 1st 2nd 3rd Concours results:
911 Water Cooled
911 Air Cooled
Jorge Hoffmann – 2007 997 S Coupe
Larry Hartman – 2003 996 Turbo
Tom Etter – 2009 997 Coupe
Ed Springer – 1997 993 Turbo Coupe
Ralph Fritsche – 1996 993 Coupe
Lou Verdiales – 1977 911S Coupe
Sport Late Model
Ron Ausburn/Pat Ette – 2006 Cayman S
Craig/Lynda Barrie – 2011 Cayman R
Keith Hervieux – 2000 Boxster
Sport Early Model
1st 2nd 3rd Jennifer/Greg Barrows – 1993 968 Coupe
Robin Hoffman – 1992 968 Coupe
Robert Rogell/Katie Gilton – 1986 944 Coupe
356
1st
2nd
3rd
Bob Dewey – 1958 A Speedster
John Stickles – 1955 Speedster John/Jan Reker – 1965 C Cabriolet People’s Choice (non-356) John Ross – 1997 993 Turbo Coupe
Best in Show Jorge Hoffmann – 2007 997 S Coupe
volume 5, Issue 4
Showdown!
Space Coast Makes Its First Defense
of the Autocross Challenge Trophy
The date: The place: The battlefield: The event: At stake:
To prepare: Saturday, December 10th
Drive departs Rockledge Lowes parking lot at 7:30am, competition begins at 9am
Orange County Convention Center, 9800 International Drive in Orlando
Sixth Annual FLC/SPC Autocross Challenge and Ladies Day
Keep possession of the new AX Challenge Trophy
Register on-line at register.pca.org, select Florida Citrus Region Autocross,
pay on-site, ladies compete for FREE
Winning isn’t
everything...
SPC’s top Ladies AX veteran – Cheryl Martineau
Last year, the women from Space Coast Region
secured our first victory in this hotly contested
series with Florida Citrus Region. A single
point has determined the winner of the past two
competitions. Space Coast members captured
four national AX trophies at the Porsche Parade
in Savannah this summer, but we need all drivers,
regardless of AX experience, to attend and drive.
For this event, winning isn’t everything…it’s the
only thing!
Victoria Dieterle will help assure another victory!
... it’s
the only
thing!
10
volume 5, Issue 4
Kaffeeklatsch at Aerodynamics
Space Coasters Brave the Gale to Attend Lou U
Article by David O’Neal
Photos by Curt Dieterle
Twenty members from Space Coast Region braved gale-force winds
and torrential rains to attend the Kaffeeklatsch hosted by the Verdiales’
at their Spruce Creek Fly-in hangar on October 9th. A generous
continental breakfast was served while the visitor viewed the latest
projects undertaken by Aerodynamics’ staff, including perfecting
some nits on Ralph Fritsche’s 930 factory slant-nose Turbo.
Additionally, a near-perfect 1986 Guards Red 930 Turbo sat alongside
a 1977 Shamrock Green 911S – historic eye candy for all to enjoy
– while a stainless steel DeLorean (sans flux capacitor) hid in the
back of the shop surrounded by various airplanes. In his tech talk,
Professor Lou Verdiales provided an extensive briefing on the myths
and intricacies of exhaust systems and their application to Porsche
cars. Lou’s extensive knowledge and expertise, coupled with his
ability to communicate that data to the layperson and gear-head
alike, made for an educational and informative experience. We are
certain to schedule a return to Lou U sometime next semester. Attendees
take advantage
of a break in the
weather to visit
Aftermarket Exhaust
Manifolds/Headers
Porsches and Planes and Lou U
volume 5, Issue 4
11
Rennsport Reunion IV
They say “a picture is worth a thousand words”. I took hundreds of pictures at Rennsport Reunion IV which was held at Laguna Seca Raceway
near Monterey, California. The shots I captured cannot convey the complete breadth of the event. The excitement, the emotion, the history
– spread panoramically in front of you each day. Almost a dozen Space Coast members were there for four days, from 7:00am until 6:00pm
– there was not enough time, there are not enough pictures, there are not enough words. – David O’Neal
About Rennsport Reunion IV
Mayhem in the
Cayman Garage
Article and Photos by Bill Berman
How do you describe one of the best and most fun filled experiences
of your life? Wow or OMG do not come close to relaying the sights,
sounds and smells of the sensory overload that was Rennsport Reunion
IV at Laguna Seca. Even though I live near Daytona Speedway, I
missed the last two Rennsport Reunions. My wife convinced me that
I should clear my calendar and attend this one and I am glad I did.
When I decided to attend, I wanted to be part of it and contribute
so I volunteered to work the event. Not only was I rewarded with
a volunteers only event shirt, but it gave me the opportunity to talk
with PCA members from around the country. Since I am a Cayman
S owner, I was especially happy to be working in the Cayman Island
section.
Rennsport happens every 3 to 4 years and I will do my best to attend
the next one; you should too - there really is no substitute.
Bill and the 918.
Can you tell I’m
happy to be there?
For me, the best part of the event was the sights and sounds of
racing Porsches from the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s. Seeing 917s and 908s
approaching the corkscrew turn at Laguna Seca was fantastic. As I
watched these cars on the track it was difficult to believe that their
prime was over 40 years ago. The 935s, 956s, and 962s were just
as impressive and brought back memories of the IMSA battles at
Daytona and Sebring, some driven by the original winning drivers.
Walking around the paddock, listening to the revving engines and
smelling the burnt racing fuel was heavenly. Being surrounded by
fellow Porsche enthusiasts made the experience that much better,
and I think it magnified the feeding frenzy in the vendor’s row. In
addition to the racing, one could find the best examples of every road
going Porsche model ever made. Being able to share the experience
in real time with other Space Coast members just made the whole
event more real and exciting.
12
volume 5, Issue 4
917 engine bay
At long last...
Rennsport 2011 – Sensory Overload
Article and Photos by Ralph Fritsche
Article by Steve Hoffman
Rennsport Reunion IV was an outstanding success. I have waited,
not so patiently, since 2007 for the next opportunity to participate in
this slice of Porsche heaven. In many things, anticipation and high
expectations can result in a let down of the experience itself. That’s just
not possible at a Rennsport Reunion. This time around we were treated
to the wonderful venue of Laguna Seca. Compared to Daytona, it’s a
real spectator track. I can only imagine how much the drivers enjoy it.
Attendance was phenomenal with over 1,200 Porsches in the corral, and
20,000 tickets sold. Aside from the legendary cars and drivers, there were
the races, the vendors, the displays, and the unveiling of the new 911. When the announcement was made that Rennsport would return for
2011 and historic Laguna Seca was the venue, I immediately got a call
from past SPC President Ralph Fritsche. We have to make our plans
now! Having never been, I did not have the same excitement. I tried
to explain that I had to check my work and home schedules to see
if I could fit it in. He tried and tried to explain to me that this was
different. Not going is not an option. If there is a conflict, it must be
cancelled and this event bumped to the top of the priority list. OK
Ralph, calm down. After I had verified I could go, (thanks Robin), we
made our travel plans.
917 thunder reverberates off
the hills around Laguna Seca
In many ways it’s like drinking from a garden hose. There was so
much to see and do that it was impossible to take it all in. PCNA and
a dedicated group of PCA volunteers put on a great event. It would be
impossible for any other automobile manufacturer to put on a similar
event. Not because they don’t have the fans, but because no other
manufacturer has such a rich motorsport history of cars, drivers, and
owners as Porsche. Now the wait begins again.....
Leading up to the event, Ralph became as anxious as a giddy school girl
with a new crush. Upon arrival, we enjoyed the drive down from San
Jose and then spent the first day scoping out Monterey, getting a good
understanding of the surrounding area and hooking up with fellow
Space Coaster David O’Neal. Lucky for us, David said PCA needed
help at the track setting things up on Thursday before the event even
began. We worked our rears off, but we were provided many perks by
being there before the crowds arrived, including the first to get a close
up view of the new 991, access to all the historic race cars and drivers,
unmolested views of the cars on the track - especially at the famed
corkscrew, and an understanding of the layout to plot our weekend
assault.
The three days of everything Porsche are difficult to describe. The
best description I can give it is total sensory overload! It is not just
the historic race cars that only appear at these type of events, but the
personal contact with Porsche factory legends such as Norbert Singer
and Alvin Springer; drivers from the past and present like Hans
Herrmann, Derek Bell, Vic Elford, Jeff Zwart, Patrick Long, etc.; the
corrals stuffed with every car, in every configuration, from every period
ever made; being with and meeting people that share your passion;
and the track and its rich history in motor sports. It is all of this and
more. There is never a moment when you are not overwhelmed with
the opportunities to expand your Porsche memory rolodex. We even
found time to sneak off to the James Dean crash site in Cholame. We
took hundreds of pictures but they can never capture the vibe.
I am not sure if the next Rennsport will be on the east or west coast, but
one thing is for sure - wherever they decide to have it, I will be there! If
there is a never miss event, this has to be it! Ralph, now I get it!!
The last new Porsche Steve McQueen
purchased, a 1976 Turbo Carrera
RSR ... a never miss event!
volume 5, Issue 4
13
Rennsport Reunion IV
Rennsport Reflections
Article and Photos by Ed Sarog
My anticipation and excitement for Rennsport had been growing
for weeks and I had to laugh when I fired up my Nissan Versa in the
Hertz lot at the airport in San Francisco! Well . . . I headed south to
Monterey on a narrow, twisty, hilly road in the pitch of night wishing
so much that I was driving my Cayman. I arrived at the hotel about
two hours later and was more than happy not to find a free parking
place due to the myriad of Porsches lining the lot - what a great
way to start Rennsport! Rise and shine at 2:30; ready to go to the
Speedway that opens at 7:00! Still stuck in EDT, I looked through
my copy of 24:16 for a couple of hours prepping myself for what can
only later be described as “turbocharged sensory overload”!
Daily breakfast
a puzzled look on their face, they each waved me on through in
the correct direction and I found a great “free” parking space at the
foot of the Speedway cross-over! Name dropping at its finest; thanks
Tom!
Tom gave me a great “nickel” tour of the entire event. Everywhere
I looked there was either an important race car of Porsche’s history
or driver, and race cars constantly circling the track! Like the race
cars, I needed fuel so I took my first “refueling” at the “Porsche in
the Paddock” biergarten and had a beautiful grilled veal brat with
German potato salad, sauerkraut, pretzel, and of course a pint of
pilsner. This was my breakfast each morning and also my lunch. By
lunch the second day the biergarten vendor was loading my plate
with extras, and also gave me a free refill on my pilsner! Surrounded
by the best examples of Porsches, great food, and friendly likeminded people; I thought, “this is heaven and it’s going to be a great
weekend!”
Each day at Rennsport Reunion, the whole Speedway complex was
so full of energy: cars zipping around the track, race teams prepping
their cars, race legends signing autographs, and vendors selling
their wares. My most memorable moment over the weekend was
watching the starting of the Gulf #2 917. I observed the “caretakers”
of the famous beast run through a series of checks prior to ignition.
Then with the concurrence of the “caretakers”, the beast was brought
to life with a tarmac shaking growl! Off idle, one of the “caretakers”
from outside the car gently blipped the throttle for about five minutes
and then after several high rev openings, the beast was ready for the
track.
I was sad to leave on Sunday, but I left looking forward to the next
Rennsport Reunion!
Finally, Friday morning 0700, at the track without a ticket! Tom
Gorsuch called me earlier and graciously offered a spare ticket, but
meeting him for the hand-off was a bit of a challenge. As I drove
towards the track, any security I encountered was greeted with a
very friendly smile, and when asked for my ticket I rambled on about
how my boss, an executive board member of PCA, was meeting me
at the Red Bull Communications building to give me a ticket. With
14
volume 5, Issue 4
2008 12 Hours of Sebring winner
Photos by David O’Neal
Flying Lizards’ Le Mans tribute
Fritsche and Hoffman
at the Corkscrew
Gunnar Racing Boss Kevin Jeannette
confers with driver Gijs Van Lennep
and mechanic Toby Ross
RS Spyders
911 (991) arrives...
... and runs
Space Coast’s David O’Neal, Tom Gorsuch,
Steve Hoffman, Ralph Fritsche, Mike Masters,
and Ed Sarog with the 918 RSR
John Osteen piloting 962
GT1
RS Spyders
volume 5, Issue 4
15
Porsche Prepares for Cajun
with Leipzig Factory Expansion
Production to Begin in 2013 at New, 42-Acre Site
ATLANTA – October 18, 2011 – Porsche today
announced the expansion of its production
facility in Leipzig, Germany as the company
prepares to produce the “Cajun” model
beginning in late 2013. Wolfgang Porsche,
the Chairman of the Supervisory Board of
Porsche Automotive, and Matthias Müller,
Chairman of the Board of Management,
joined guests from government and business
to announce the news in Stuttgart on
Tuesday.
A rendering of the entire Porsche plant in Leipzig
“We are investing another 500 million euro
[$684.9 million] in the production facility to
build the Cajun in Leipzig. This is not just
a mark of confidence in the manufacturing
skills of our Leipzig colleagues, but also an
important contribution to the economic
development of the region,” said Matthias
Müller on the morning of the festivities.
The Leipzig site, currently home to 800
employees, has been producing the Porsche
Cayenne since its conception in 2002, and also
produces the four-seater Porsche Panamera.
Porsche has invested approximately $383
million (280 million euro) in the Leipzig
site, with more than 420,000 cars produced
to date.
Production of the “Cajun” will create
approximately 1,000 additional jobs at the
facility.
The plant sets environmental standards as
well, being one of the world’s most efficient
car factories. Efficient air recirculation and
power cut-off technologies in the paint shop
ensure economical energy use.
With the development of the upcoming
“Cajun,” Porsche plans to expand its SUV
line-up, adding a new, smaller SUV model
below the Cayenne.
Porsche’s newest, the Cajun
volume 5, Issue 4
19
Tech Column
By Jesse Lim, Porsche of Melbourne
Welcome back for another exciting issue of the Tech Column! This
article will focus on some of the electronic accessories and aftermarket
solutions that are available for your Porsche. The world of electronic
gadgets is ever changing and can sometimes seem overwhelming to
the average consumer. Most of us are familiar with iPods, iPhones
and other such multimedia devices. For those of you that have a later
are very easy to use and are a safer and much more convenient way
of having a conversation with someone while driving. Obviously, the
safest option is not to talk on the phone at all while you’re driving,
but we all know that in today’s fast paced society, you’re often going
to be on the phone while driving. There are also aftermarket “stand
alone” bluetooth systems that can be installed if you have an older
model that does not have an integratable radio
unit.
And now for my personal favorite: the
Multimedia Interface! Everybody loves music
and we all know that the radio doesn’t often play
what we want to hear. If you have a bunch
of tunes stored on an mp3 player, USB drive, or
even a streaming device that utilizes a program
such as Pandora, then there is an integratable
system that will allow you to plug your music
collection straight into your vehicle’s stereo
and rock out. Some vehicles are eligible for the
Porsche factory interface, and for the others
there are high quality aftermarket solutions
that are very user friendly. If you have an iPod
or iPhone, these kits will charge it when it’s
plugged in and some will allow you to control
the iPod through the PCM if equipped.
Multimedia Interface
model Porsche, you may already have factory options in place that
enable interaction with certain devices. Now for the rest of us, there
are quite a few solutions for integrating your favorite device into
your vehicle’s on board computer or stereo system. There are quite a
few companies out there such as NAV TV and DENSION that offer
many choices in the bluetooth and multimedia integration range.
Another very popular add-on accessory is the
radar detector. Many of your vehicles look fast
just sitting still! When Johnny Law is hiding up
ahead looking for someone out enjoying their
beautiful car, he is most likely waiting for you
with his radar gun out and aimed. I absolutely do not encourage
or condone speeding unless in a controlled environment (that’s
what track days are for). However, if you find yourself in a bit of
For your cellular devices, there are bluetooth integration systems
that allow you to make and answer phone calls using a hands-free
interface via the radio or PCM control (stereo system). These systems
Bluetooth integration
Radar detectors – a popular accessory
a hurry and happen to be traveling a few miles an hour over the
posted speed limit, it’s nice to get a little notice that someone is using
radar up ahead and give yourself the chance to slow down rather
than be pulled over and possibly cited for speeding. The last thing
you want when you’re trying to get to dinner or a weekend event
is to be held up on the side of the road by a police officer. Porsche
of Melbourne is now an authorized dealer/installer of Escort Radar
and Laser Detectors. We would be happy to give you an estimate for
installation of a radar detector or any of the previously mentioned
systems in your Porsche.
20
volume 5, Issue 4
From the DE Instructor
High Performance Driving in the Rain
Article by David O’Neal
Photos by Colour Tech South and Porsche
Driving in the rain can greatly improve
both confidence and skills
After many track days, I began to wonder if
it was my “skills” or Dr. Porsche’s wonderful
computers driving the car. Porsche’s
Sport Driving School preaches a mantra
of “accelerate and brake in straight lines”
during high performance driving situations.
PSDS also keeps “the nannies” permanently
engaged on its cars and assures drivers that
the computers do not intervene unless the
driver is doing something wrong. However,
without a limited slip differential PSM
intervenes quite frequently during righthand turns.
DE Hall of Fame Instructor Keep Morse
from Suncoast Florida Region advised me
to wait for a rainy track day to turn off PSM
and answer my question. His rationale: one
drives slower in the rain and the wet surface
magnifies any errors in technique. So, I took
up the challenge some months later when the
opportunity arose at PBIR; the rains came
and a few of us ventured onto the glistening
track surface.
By following PSDS’ strict mantra of “brake
in straight lines, accelerate in straight lines”,
I found the performance and grip to be only
slightly less than on a dry track. I started
slowly and adjusted the line and braking
points as my confidence built and track
conditions changed. I did spin near the end
of a 30 minute session when trying to squareoff a corner; the Cayman S was half on a “dry
line” that had developed and half on the wet
– PSM would not have saved the car from
that mental lapse. Nonetheless I learned,
as have several of my HPDE students, that
with care and concentration on “the mantra”,
performance driving in the wet is not only
possible, but quite rewarding.
Driving in wet conditions can be rewarding
volume 5, Issue 4
21
Classifieds
FOR SALE: 1988 Porsche 930S
Slant Nose Factory Convertible with
only 47K miles. Black exterior, grey
with black piping interior leather,
grey carpet.Updated air conditioning,
excellent mechanicals, like new tires,
Speedline Porsche 18” wheels. In very
good condition. Asking $55K. Please
contact Mark Garvey at (407) 739-9143
or [email protected]
22
volume 5, Issue 4
The Racer’s Group/Adobe Road Winery
Wine Pairing and Dinner
Article and Photos by Ron Menck
Kevin Butler, owner of TRG and Adobe Winery hosted a wine
pairing and dinner for 75 lucky individuals during Porsche Parade
2011 . Fortunately, the event was held on the only free night of the
entire Parade which allowed those in attendance not to miss one of
the many scheduled banquets. During the evening, we were
treated to not only fine wine, but
good food as well. Mark Krystopa,
Executive Chef at the AVIA in
downtown Savannah prepared
unique dinner specials at three
food stations, while Adobe Winery
served up their boutique wines at
two other stations. Once the sampling of food and
wine was over, Kevin gave us a
rare glimpse of the inside story of
winning the Rolex 24 in Daytona,
not just once, but four times. He
also showed several videos of ontrack racing, and displayed the
winning TRG #66 GT3 along with
the Rolex 24 Trophy.
Rolex 24 winner TRG #66 GT3
Needless to say that I, being a big
fan of food, wine, and race cars,
was totally immersed in all my
senses. This was one evening I
won’t soon forget!
volume 5, Issue 4
Adobe Road Petit Shiraz
23
Ho-Ho-Ho! 2011 Holiday Party
Article by Jack Roberts
Photo by Blake Blakely
Mark December 17th on your calendar, when
we’ll return to the beautiful Eau Gallie Yacht
Club for our Annual Holiday Party. For those
of you who have joined us in past years, you
know it will be a wonderful evening with
special guests, no-host cocktails, door prizes,
and a sumptuous dinner; for those of you
who missed this event last year—don’t make
the same mistake twice.
The fun begins at 6:30pm, with dinner at
7:30pm. The menu will include a mixed
green salad with house dressing, your
choice of New York Strip Steak, Grilled Pork
Medallions with Apple Chutney, and Grilled
Mahi with Mango Chutney. Dessert will be
Chocolate Bread Pudding with Bourbon
Sauce. Appropriate starch, fresh vegetables,
dinner rolls, butter, coffee, and tea are all
included for only $40 per person. Children’s
entrée available by request.
Credit cards are gladly accepted. Make your
reservations at register.pca.org. Attendance
is limited so please register soon. The Club
is located at 100 Datura Drive in Indian
Harbour Beach. For those of you wanting
overnight accommodations, there are several
nice hotels in the immediate neighborhood,
including the Radisson, Hilton, and Crown
Plaza.
We have lots to celebrate as 2011 draws to a
close, so please join us. Direct any questions
to Jack Roberts at (321) 727-0046 or [email protected].
Window Tinting
Audio/Video Sales and Installation
Fiberglass Enclosures and Interior
Performance Parts
Custom Body and Paint
Adjustable Suspension
Security Systems
Detailing
1445 W. New Haven Avenue, Suite 200
West Melbourne, Florida 32904
321.722.0228
[email protected]
www.ExplicitCustoms.com
24
volume 5, Issue 4
Election of Club Officers
Elections for officers will be held
during the Holiday Party. The
nominating committee, chaired
by Jack Roberts, has submitted the
following slate for election:
The committee will welcome
additional nominees from the floor. As well, any members interested in
volunteering for appointed positions
are encouraged to do so by contacting
the President-Elect. If you are unable
to attend, please contact Jack Roberts
for a Proxy form to cast your ballot
for an officer or other member of
your choice.
President:
David O’Neal
Vice President:
Steve Hoffman
Secretary:
John “Blake” Blakely
Treasurer:
Tom Kirk
Current and past SPC Officers
volume 5, Issue 4
25
Santa Claus is Coming…
Space Coast Region has Special Gift Items
for this Holiday Season
SPC Lapel Pins
SPC has in stock lapel pins like those sent aboard the Space Shuttle Atlantis
on its final mission. The pins are featured in the November 2011 edition of
PCA’s Panorama Magazine. Own a piece of history. $10
Derek Bell: My Racing Life
Porsche of Melbourne and Space Coast Region have access to a
limited number of the updated edition of this autobiography
autographed by Derek Bell. This collector’s keepsake is only
available through SPC for a special price. To pre-order and reserve
your copy, email David O’Neal, [email protected]. $35
Region of the Year Merchandise
A limited inventory of apparel and only a few watches remain commemorating SPC’s
achievement of the Ferry Porsche Trophy. See the Parts Department at Porsche of
Melbourne for remaining sizes and quantities.
Want to
Share?
Escape Velocity invites its readers to
submit articles and photos dealing with
topics of interest to the Space Coast Region
members.
If you have a personal Porsche experience
you would like to share, a technical tip,
or just pictures of your car in fun places,
please forward it to Ginny O’Neal for
consideration. Articles accepted will be
subject to editing.
You may email submissions to:
[email protected]
Order now for delivery by the Holiday Party on December 17th.
Membership has its privileges.
Reach an audience of passionate people.
Your next client could be reading this right now.
You are...
Advertise in the PCA national
award winning Escape Velocity.
Call Jack Roberts today!
321-727-0046
26
volume 5, Issue 4
PCA
Member Price
15% Discount
On ALL
Minor Services!
On ALL
Major Services!
This offer Expires January 31,
2012. This offer not valid on
previous service and cannot be
combined with any other offer.
See service advisor for details.
Zonefest 2012 — April 20 - 22
Autocross
Concours
Door Prizes
Gimmick Rally
Good Friends
Great Food
Hosted by Space Coast Region
at the beautiful Costa d’Este
Beach Resort in Vero Beach, Florida
Mark your
calendars.
Plan on
joining us!
volume 5, Issue 4
27
Driver Education Event
International Raceway
Article by Rick Parrott
Photos by Tom Kirk and David O’Neal
I awoke early on Saturday, July 16 eagerly anticipating the day. This
was to be my first Driver Education event with my 2003 Boxster S.
The Driver Education events are structured to be a fun and safe way
to explore the capabilities of your Porsche, and are also a great way to
learn more about high performance driving techniques. I met fellow
Space Coast members Tom Kirk, Steve Hoffman, David O’Neal, Rex
Moule, and Jorge Hoffmann at Sam’s Club and we all drove down
to Palm Beach International Raceway for the 12:00pm start of the
event.
Jorge Hoffmann, Rex Moule, and
Rick Parrott ready for the day
Upon our arrival at PBIR we quickly registered and prepared our
cars for the mandatory tech inspection. Per the instructions for the
event I had my Boxster S inspected earlier in the week to make sure
that it met all of the safety requirements for the event, so I was not
concerned about the inspection. I should have known that as a rookie
I was going to be in for several lessons that day!
Lesson #1 was discovering that my not so old motorcycle helmet did
not meet the standards required for the event. A lot of questions later
and some quick assistance by Tom Kirk helped me to locate another
driver who graciously offered to loan me their helmet for my sessions.
Thanks Tom!
This was Lesson # 2. Everyone at the event was really helpful and
encouraging! Problem solved, it was time to head off for the driver’s
meeting. After the driver’s meeting I met Stuart, my instructor for
the day, and headed out for a couple of slow speed laps of the track.
Stuart explained the format for the day and my driving sessions.
After our laps, I headed off for the mandatory classroom session for
novice drivers. The classroom session was informative, covering basic
driving techniques, proper procedures and etiquette on the track, and
the various flags that are used to inform drivers while on the track.
After the classroom session, I raced back to my car eager to get out on
the track for my first session, just in time for the heavens to open up.
The rain poured down in buckets!
DE students roll into Turn 4 at PBIR
As a rookie I was go
ing
to be in for several l
essons!
28
volume 5, Issue 4
at Palm Beach
Lesson #3. The DE events go on rain or shine, although you can
always opt not to drive. After reassurances from some of the more
experienced club members that driving on a wet track is a great way
to learn, I prepared to head out for my first session. My first session
was a real learning experience. My instructor was great and helped
to get me acclimated and comfortable. My first laps were somewhat
tentative as I was fairly cautious driving for the first time on a very
wet track. I gradually got more and more comfortable though and
was amazed at the amount of grip and the performance of my Boxster
in the rain! The session ended all too quickly and we headed back to
the hospitality tent for dinner. After a brief wait it was back on the track for Session #2. I was much
more comfortable and now able to concentrate and follow more
closely the directions and driving tips from my instructor. I gradually
increased my speed and even started to pass a few cars! In no time the
session was over. My instructor graciously offered to let me ride with
him as an observer as he was driving in the next session. This was
really helpful as I got to see the lines, braking, and shifting points that
he was using on his laps. About this time is when Lesson #1 reared its
head again. Unfortunately my loaner helmet was about two sizes too
small and I was beginning to get a really sore head! I was having too
much fun to stop though, so after a few minutes it was time to jump
back in the Boxster for my final session of the day. The track was
getting drier. My driving was beginning to get into a good rhythm and
I was passing more and more cars. I was feeling pretty good with how
well I was doing, but I got a real dose of humility when David O’Neal
came flying past me in his GT3 RS. The time for my last session went
by much too quickly and my track time was done for the day. I have
to admit though this was somewhat of a relief as I was ready to get my
big head out of that little helmet! After the sessions were complete, we
all swapped stories of the day then headed back to Melbourne and the
end of a very fun, educational, and wet day at PBIR.
If you have never done a Driver Education event with your Porsche,
I cannot recommend this experience highly enough. The DE events
are well structured, safe and really, really fun! The only problem with
the event was that I didn’t want it to end! I have been bitten by the DE
bug and will definitely be signing up for more DE events in the very
near future. Next time though I’ll bring a bigger helmet!
volume 5, Issue 4
29
coming attractions
DEC 3
10
10
11
17
JAN 6-8
7
15
15
21
21
27-29
28
FEB 2-5
4
4
12
18-19
24-26
25 Drive and Dine, check website for details
Drive to FLC/SPC AX Challenge, departs Lowes Rockledge
FLC/SPC Challenge & Ladies Day AX, Orange County Convention Center
Kaffeeklatschen at Panera: Daytona, Indian Harbour Beach, Vero
Holiday Party at Eau Gallie Yacht Club
“Roar Before the 24” Rolex Testing at Daytona
Drive to Rolex Testing, departs Lowes Rockledge
Drive to Kaffeeklatsch/Brunch in Fort Pierce, departs Porsche of Melbourne
Special Kaffeeklatsch/Brunch at Pelican Yacht Club, Fort Pierce
Drive to ATC Car Show, departs Lowes Rockledge
ATC Car Show, Daytona Beach, $10 per car
Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge & Rolex 24, Daytona
Drive to Rolex 24, departs Lowes Rockledge
48 Hours of Sebring Club Races & Driver Education, Sebring
Drive to Zone 12 Autocross Challenge, departs Sam’s Melbourne
Zone 12 Autocross Challenge, Sebring
Kaffeeklatschen at Panera: Daytona, Indian Harbour Beach, Vero
Driver Education with FLC, Roebling Road Raceway, Savannah
Targa 66, Palm Beach International Raceway
Drive to Targa 66, departs Sam’s Club Melbourne
Dates and times subject to change.
Please check our website, spc.pca.org,
to confirm event times, contacts, and details.
A special thank you to our advertisers
Porsche of Melbourne
30
pages 2, 26, 31, centerfold
Green Turtle Market
page 22
Series 9
page 3
iGuard
page 22
CPA Wealth Management
page 4
Coasters Pub
page 23
AAA
page 6
Eau Gallie Yacht Club
page 24
Zipper Urogynecology
page 7
Explicit Customs
page 24
Sharpe’s Body Shop
page 9
Dan’s Werkshop
page 25
SOS Dent
page 9
GAGE-IT-WELL
page 25
Blake Blakely Photography
page 10
Marino’s Mobile Detail
page 26
Brown & Bigelow (Lois & Jack Roberts)
page 11
Taylor Custom Remodeling
page 26
Wickham Dental Care
page 11
Nancy Taylor/Prudential Sterling Properties
page 27
Tyson Marine and Aviation Insurance
page 15
Tamburr Motorcars
page 29
Cebotech
page 19
Glover Oil Co.
page 29
Invisible Bras
page 21
Horst Seibert/Porsche of Melbourne
page 29
volume 5, Issue 4
Q & A with
Lou and Donna Linden
EscapeVelocity asks our members
EV: What should we know about the
Linden family?
A. For one thing, we stay busy. I am the Director
for a small business managing contracts with
NASA, Missile Defense Agency, and U.S. Air
Force. I am also the President of the Armed
Forces Communications and Electronics
Association (AFCEA) Canaveral Chapter. Along with being the Broker for Century
21 Camelot Realty, with four offices across
Brevard County, Donna is also the 2011
President of the Space Coast Association of
Realtors. Travel with jobs and organizations
keeps us on the road most of the time. I enjoy visiting Porsche dealerships while
on business trips across the country, having
visited the Porsche dealership in Santa
Barbara (CA), Colorado Springs (CO),
Annapolis (MD), Eatontown (NJ), and several
in Florida. If anyone has the opportunity to
visit the Porsche dealer in Colorado Springs,
and the weather is just right, you too can fall
on your butt and slide down a great hill in
front of the dealership! EV: Tell us about the Porsches you
have owned.
A. Our first Porsche was a 2005 Boxster. It really got us hooked. What a great car in
every way. Well, except when it fills with
several inches of water during a tropical
storm; but that is another long and sad story. That car helped us become acquainted with
many wonderful people and events. Besides
the Boxster, we have owned a beautiful 2009
911S Coupe, and now own a 2011 Cayman S. Each one has its own character and provides
a different experience. The Cayman is the
perfect car for autocross if I could just find
the perfect driver – Donna, are you ready?
if good wine is involved. I enjoy those also,
but not as much as the new experience of
autocross. Now, that is fun!
EV: Besides Porsches, what activities
do you enjoy?
A. We enjoy a nice glass of wine, and golf. But work, travel, and Porsches keep us off the
golf course. Is it true that two sets of clubs
will fit in the Cayman?
Donna and Lou Linden
EV: What do you like about being
members of SPC?
A. We appreciated the way members of SPC
welcomed us from the very beginning, as if
we had been members for years. The club is
what makes the Porsche experience what it is. It is the people that make the club what it is.
What a great group. Donna especially enjoys
the Drive and Dine experience, especially
volume 5, Issue 4
31
PRSRT STD
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
ALL SERVICE
GRAPHICS
21 Riverside Drive #401 | Cocoa, FL 32922
Commemorative Watch
2009 Region of the Year
The Ferry Porsche Trophy
Engraving on back:
2009 Region of the Year
Available at Porsche
of Melbourne Parts
Department