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DIE PORSCHE KASSETTE is the official publication of the Porsche Club of America, Gold Coast Region, Inc. and is published monthly. Any statement appearing in the Kassette is that of the author and does not constitute an opinion of the Porsche Club of America, the Gold Coast Region, Inc., its Board of Directors, the KASSETTE editors or its staff. The editorial staff reserves the right to edit all material submitted for publication. Permission is given to chartered regions of PCA to reprint articles in their newsletter if credit is given to the author and the KASSETTE. Publication office: 648 NW 100 Lane, Coral Springs, FL 33071

FIRST TURN

Peter Olliviere , President

When the COVID pandemic was at its height the Board of Directors was forced to curtail a number of the events and activities normally enjoyed each year by Gold Coast members. Among the things cut were all meetings or gatherings for which we could not easily establish a six-foot separation between attendees. Moving forward with events where we could comply with the requirements, we managed maintain some structure of a functioning Club.

Three of the events that had to change included our monthly Board of Directors meetings, Concours competitions, and Driver Education outings. Well, while the pandemic has had its impacts on our membership and a number of events have returned to pre-pandemic levels, those that mentioned above have not. It’s now time to get those events on track. When I was first elected all Board meetings were open to any member who wanted to attend. During the pandemic we moved the meetings to Zoom, and you had to be invited to the meeting. As a result, unless some

one had a specific reason to attend a meeting we had only one or two guests in attendance.

Don’t get me wrong: there is plenty of value in holding the Board of Directors meeting on Zoom. It’s a lot easier for the Board members to attend rather than driving from the far reaches of the region. But the personal touch is lost and the easy accessibility of the membership is also impacted. To counteract the effects of all Zoom meetings, going forward, one meeting each quarter will be held in person. To that end the membership meeting scheduled for March 25th will be an open meeting, Cars-and-Coffee-style, held at Porsche West Broward. Come out and meet the Board; see how the Club functions; learn what’s going on and what’s on the horizon. Have your questions asked and answered, and make your suggestions. Watch your email for details.

Not a week goes by without the question of concours events and when we will we hold them again. The first thing we need to decide is

whether members want a wash and shine, or a judged concours event. A wash and shine event is just that: the only judging required is directed to the eye appeal of the cars’ exteriors and interiors. A judged event means that a qualified person judges your car and rates it against established criteria. The difference between the types of events is that the concours requires qualified judges. We are willing to revive our Concours College judge training classes, if we have members who are willing to volunteer to take them. Since PCA Concours are judged by class, we would need at least 10 judges to judge the 10 separate classes. If you would like to be undergo training, please contact me at polliviere@gmail.com to help bring back Concours events.

As for Drivers Education, take note that DE has already undergone a restructuring under the guidance of Mark Johnson and is in the process of training first timers in what is required to get their car on track at Homestead. If you have an interest, contact mark at mjsailing@hotmail.com.

SHIFT INTO SOCIAL

Christy Spangler, Social Chair

Spring is here, officially starting on March 20th—but before that, don’t forget to spring your clocks forward on March 12th, when daylight savings time begins!

I have been working with Peter, our region’s President, and the Board of Directors to restructure the Social Committee. In the past we have had a large group of dedicated volunteers assisting with the Social Committee. Thank you all for your help! With the restructure, we have created a core committee group of six individuals who are dedicated to planning and organizing events. For anyone who has an idea for an event, the committee members will work with you to make it happen.

And here are the Social Committee members: Dottie Kidd, Cynthia Fluhart, Ian Gerada, Mike Del Pozo, Noemi Sanchez, and Rick Veingrad. They have diverse areas of expertise and interests that will help make this committee strong. If you have an idea for a social event, please reach out to one of the committee members to work with you in making it happen. In the

spirit of St. Patrick’s Day, we are lucky to have a group dedicated to organizing our great social events. Every now and again, an event we are planning does not quite go, well, as we had planned. We had to restructure the Evolution of Porsches event and cancel the February 25th session. More information about that coming soon.

We are working on some events for the months of March and April so stay tuned for upcoming updates and announcements about these events via the “enews” emails. You can also check the calendar on the GCR website at goldcoastregion. org/calendar, or the Gold Coast Region Facebook page events section or on clubregistration.net for events and updates.

PCA and GCR are fueled by volunteers: we could not do all the things we do without our volunteers. If you have the urge to volunteer or have an idea for something fun, contact the social committee at socials@goldcoastregion.org.

See you soon at an upcoming event!

In spite of the rain, a few members came out to the last Porsche & Pancakes breakfast at the Flashback Diner in Boca Raton in February. Thank you to Paul Laya for hosting. Photo form the GCR Facebook group.

Dottie Kidd

Cynthia Fluhart

Ian Gerada

Mike Del Pozo

Noemi Sanchez

Rick Veingrad

KEY STROKES

Roger Fabel, Editor

Volunteers are the key to the success of GCR. As Peter noted in his article, the COVID lockdown slowed our regional activities. Once the COVID pandemic was behind us, I noticed many PCA members stepping up to the plate to volunteer for the many needed positions. Here are some examples:

• The PCA Juniors picnic required several volunteers skilled in providing craft activities for the Juniors, managing registration, and even cooking on the grill. What a joy to see these members step up when needed.

• Another example was the increased involvement in our charity efforts.

• The increase in help with the Kassette was a blessing that has led to many improvements.

• Our social events have expanded to meet the requests for more GCR activities.

I could go on, but the most recent example of our volunteers becoming more involved was exhibited at this year’s 48 Hours at Sebring club race. Several of our chairs were unable to attend because of illness. We were missing a pace car driver, one of our tech chairs, and an artist who needed help setting up his artwork. Volunteers came to the rescue and helped make this year’s event a big success. The saying, “It’s all about the people, not the cars,” is so true.

If you are a new member, or a member who has not gotten involved, don’t miss the fun! Attend an event and ask how you can get involved. We like to share our stories and help members enjoy what we have experienced for almost 60 years.

Help Wanted! In the past, we published ads in the Kassette for positions where we needed help. This initiative was very successful. Once again, we are sending out a notice. The Kassette can use help with graphic arts, social media, event photography, and marketing. We have a great team, but we can always use more assistance to share the load and help produce our professional monthly magazine.

We have many great events coming up. Enjoy your Porsche.

Roger

START YOUR ENGINES

Rev Up Your Search for the Perfect Porsche: Discover PCA’s Classifieds Section!

Ian Gerada , Membership Chair

I’m sure you’ve noticed that car prices have been on the rise over the past few years, and that’s great news if you happen to own a Porsche that’s in demand. However, if you’re in the market to buy one, you might be finding it a bit difficult.

I’ve been talking to a lot of members lately, and many of them have mentioned how tough it can be to find certain models of new and used Porsches. I don’t have all the answers, but what I do know is that the search for a new Porsche or trying to trade yours in can be a bit of a hassle (although personally, I enjoy the hunt). So, here’s a little tip for you. Did you know that PCA has a classifieds section on our website? It’s a great resource to help you find your dream Porsche or sell your current one. You can access it here: https://mart.pca. org/

You can even sign up for custom email alerts, post a “wanted” ad, or search for cars by year, price, or a combination of both. It’s an excellent place to kick off your car buying process or selling journey. Hope this helps you out!

New Member Numbers

I’m happy to report that as of Feb 15th, 2023, our Porsche Club of America membership in the Gold Coast Region has reached a total of 3,247! That includes 2,149 primary members, 1,098 co-members, and 322 PCA Juniors.

We want to extend a warm welcome to all of our new members who have joined this exciting community. We’re thrilled to have you on board and can’t wait to see all the fun and exciting things we can do together as a club.

Thanks for being a part of the Porsche Club of America family!

Drive safe,

Welcome PCA Transfers

DRT 2023... Bigger and Better Than Ever

Article by Steve Kidd

DRT is known as the greatest automobile event in South Florida, and for a good reason. While not a PCA event, DRT attracts hundreds of Porsches and participants from around the country for five days of Porsche camaraderie. Below is a summary of the activities that occurred at DRT 2023, along with highlights of PCA Gold Coast Region’s participation.

Wednesday, January 18th - The Track Experience....At Homestead racetrack! This event could best be described as a DE+. The driving component offered track time for advanced, intermediate, and lead-follow groups. As I have done this previously, I was once again asked to coordinate the lead-follow and assembled a great group of instructors to assist and lead. Many thanks to Ed, Dan, Eddy, and Polo, who helped me in teaching the newcomers by keeping them in the proper line in a safe, controlled environment. Also going on were car corrals, photo ops, socializing, and some great food.

Thursday, January 19th - Brews and meet-up social at Beat Culture.

Friday, January 20th - Exclusive cocktail party with a preview of The Hanger, the area designated for food and beverages.

Saturday, January 21st - Cars and Coffee at the same location as last year - Waterford Place in Miami. This get-together was no ordinary C & C, with a spectacular group of pristine Porsches and a showing of more

unstock Porsches than we have seen before. This day was about socializing with fellow Porsche owners while enjoying good food and beverage. Dottie and I were able to catch up with many old friends and meet new acquaintances.

Sunday, January 22nd - The main event this year was again at Regatta Park in Coconut Grove, and it did not disappoint. This event displayed a spectacular assembly of rare and limited-edition Porsches, custom builds, and super-clean show cars. The results and photos will most likely be available soon on the website. Food and beverage were available in the Hanger with the purchase of a special wristband. A huge group of vendors were in attendance, selling products and answering questions. This vendor area is where the GCR Hospitality Tent was also located.

The objectives of the GCR Hospitality area were many, but here are a few key points:

• Thanking PCA members for supporting the club and informing them about upcoming PCA events.

• Dottie Kidd, GCR Vice President, set her goals on recruiting as many new and PCA Juniors as possible.

• Identifying Porsche owners who are not yet PCA members and letting them know the benefits, and the fun, of being a PCA member.

• Offering water, snacks, publications, and goodies.

• Encouraging everyone to enter a drawing at the end of the show for their chance to win one of two Goodie Baskets. We received over 200 entries! The winners were Carmen Potolicchio and Javier Colon. Additionally, four hourly drawings for nice travel bags provided by PCA National had over 334 entries.

A huge thanks to GCR volunteers who helped at the Hospitality tent working 2-hour shifts. These volunteers include, but are not limited to, Dottie, Mark, Julianna, Joaquin, Paul, Nestor, Noemi, Tom, Christy, Don, Carlos, Larry, Tamar, Lissette, Mario, Kevin, Hans, Lori, Carolynn, and Steve. What an amazing group! PCA’s motto, “Fueled by Volunteers,” is correct! All told, over 425+ PCA members and Porsche owners stopped by the GCR Hospitality Tent, where they enjoyed socializing and being welcomed into the PCA family.

A huge JOB WELL DONE to team Zweck, headed by Alvaro, Yordi & Suneal. They have not only put on this great event for many years but also supported PCA Gold Coast Region and graciously supplied our hospitality tent at DRT.

DRT is an event not to be missed, and members are encouraged to put DRT on their bucket lists for 2024.

Photos by David Castrillo

Porsche Parade offers driving tours in which PCA members and guests meet up at a defined starting location, drive together along an interesting route, and enjoy a unique place or destination – often including a luncheon with PCA friends. Parade is a great time to join a driving tour!

Phase 2 Registration Opens April 5, 2023

June 18-24, 2023

La Quinta Resort & Club

Palm Springs, California

www.porscheparade.org

Autocross Update Club Race Edition

Article by Steve Kidd

An AutoX at the 48 Hours at Sebring Club Race! That’s what took place on February 4, 2023. Many of you have heard about the 48 Hours at Sebring Club Race, but how many of you know that the Gold Coast Region AutoX team has been hosting an AutoX as part of the Suncoast/Gold Coast activities every year since 2008? I believe we were the first Club Race to introduce Autocross as a feature activity to Club Race and have billed this as a Zone Challenge competitive event since the beginning. This AutoX has drawn the best drivers from all over the country to see who could claim the title of class “Top Gun” or FTD (fastest time of the day). This year we had drivers from as far as northern New Jersey and middle Tennessee.

This year’s Club Race and the AutoX had some challenges in the form of staff shortages and 20+ MPH winds. However, preparations were made for the wind and we tied down the tent and timing equipment, and so endured only a few antenna blow-overs. While we had fewer volunteers at AutoX but made up for it in their quality. A huge thanks to those that helped us make this event a success, including Chris Alvarado from Club Registration. Besides Chris, we had Noel and Brigette on Friday and Brigette and Julie on Saturday. Many of you remember Julie as one of our committed volunteers who drives up for the day, doesn’t run, and works the timing console all day. Dottie did an excellent job of grouping who would run and who would work and the event finished right on schedule! Julie, James and Janet kept timing running smoothly, with zero timing errors, despite the wind, which caused a number of false trips, especially in the afternoon. The course was a modification of a design we have used in the past. Similar, but with enough difference to make it challenging and safe.

Many of you have asked what was new about this year’s 48 Hour AX. Listed below are the AX enhancements for 2023:

• An AutoX school on Friday. This proved to be rewarding and hopefully part of the 2024 agenda.

• Not everyone could win a trophy; however everyone got a “Race Pack,” thanks to Hagerty Insurance.

• A two-event structure that provided for an event in the morning, a two-hour break to do the track tour, get lunch and socialize, then a separate AX event in the afternoon. This new format allows competitors to do either morning, afternoon, or both events. It eliminates the need to stay at the AX site all day, and participants only need to do one work shift per event and still get six runs.

• Really nice FTD Pirelli hats for both the men’s and ladie’s fastest time of the day.

The level of competition was spectacular, and the Fastest Time of the Day went to Ernie Revuelta for both the morning and afternoon events. Ernie is from Gold Coast Region and drives a lightly prepared Cayman S. Ladies FTD went to Kirsten Eggert, who co-manages the AX program for Suncoast Region with her husband Jerry. Kirsten drives a modified Cayman R and jumps in to help wherever necessary a full listing of results and pictures can be found on both the 48 Hours at Sebring and Gold Coast Region websites. If you missed this year’s Club Race AX be sure to plan on participating next year.

Tentative AX schedule for the remainder of 2023

Event #4 3/11/2023 @ St. Lucie County Fairgrounds, a new site for us and about 45 minutes closer than Sebring.

Event #5 4/15 /2023 @ Sebring in conjunction with the Suncoast Region DE. Thanks again to our friends at Suncoast for the site.

Event #6 9/09/2023 @ Sebring in conjunction with the Suncoast Region DE. Thanks again to our friends at Suncoast for the site.

Event #7 10/21/2023 @ St. Lucie County Fairgrounds

Most of the above dates & sites are subject to change due to weather, availability, and factors beyond our control. News, reminders and 2023 updates:

• Everyone is now required to pre-register for any AutoX on Clubregistration.net. Please consult the GCR website and the Kassette for all Autocross photos & results.

• Porsche car classes are currently based on the NEW PCR’s for all of PCA, with minor regional adjustments. The new PCA rules provide for a reduced number of classes. The major difference will be the addition of SN (stock car/novice driver) for men and ladies. These classes are strictly for newcomers only. Please contact Steve for any car class questions. We reserve the right to make additional class/rule changes as needed.

• Our 2023 series is planned to include 5 to 7 events, depending on site eligibility. To be eligible for an end of the year award, competitors must run in over half the events in the same class. Each competitor’s top finishes will be calculated, and an end of the year class champion will be recognized. In case of a tie, additional events will be added until the tie is broken. Year-end class champion awards may be presented.

• No passengers are allowed in AX vehicles except for an approved AX instructor driving or in the car instructing.

• For 2023 please remember to still be Covid-19 conscious. This means appropriate safety protocols will be enforced when necessary.

• Questions? call Steve or Dottie Kidd 954-946-3196.

Photos by George Plucienkowski

FINDING GOLD

JOSEPH “JR” CROSS

He’s a man on a mission…

“My other PCar interests? A 1974 Porsche 914. I really love light midengine Porsches. I want to take up surfing one day and the Targa top is perfect for a surfboard. I just imagine heading back from the beach at 8:30 am on weekday mornings with my board on the passenger side, rolling through each gear to redline, while still being at legal speeds. Enjoying the symphony of mechanical sounds while absorbing the morning sun. It’s the most righteous way to start the day. . .”

Our Kassette FINDING GOLD member feature this month is a young man pursuing goals. A simple key to achieving goals is visualizing them. Joseph “JR” Cross Jr. has visualized his plan. The quote above is his, and this goal is one of many that he holds dear to his heart.

JR and his wife, Anastasia, lived in Miami along the river, renting an apartment. Married for over two years, they added to the family in 2021 with a son, Joseph Fabian Cross III. Joseph Cross III is known as “Trey” for pretty obvious reasons. Trey recently turned 20 months old. He is a rambunctious lad. It’s fun to watch him scamper across the screen on JR’s many Facebook posts. Trey is enthusiastic, energetic, and cute. The family also enjoys frequent visits from Avia Cross, JR’s 9-year-old daughter. She has a smile that will light up any room and has the kindest of hearts. Avia was initially afraid of the revving flat-6 engine, telling her father how it was unnecessary to go fast. After one ride though, she caught the spirit: leaning

over she asked her dad discretely to punch it again.

The area along the Miami River is more suitable to a single lifestyle, or that of a young couple, sans kids. With a growing family in a smallish and relatively costly Miami apartment, it was another goal to move into a place they owned that they could call home. JR, Anastasia, and Trey are working toward this goal.

Given the highly expensive and volatile housing market, they moved from Miami into a condominium in Homestead, FL. The plan is to sit tight for a year and reassess, with the objective to purchase a home. JR is like that, setting his objectives. His friends are now waiting for the

Member Feature by Mark Johnson

housewarming party but he’s not so certain that such a party would be appropriate for a rental condo. But why not? It’s a move in the right direction. JR claims to be a be conservative on the issue and perhaps a bit embarrassed. Nonetheless, friends are always welcome!

JR Cross, Jr. was born in Riverside, California. After seven years in the state, the road led the Cross family to Virginia Beach, VA. He grew up next to Naval Air Station Oceana. The base is the Navy’s East Coast Master Jet Base, home to F/A-18 Super Hornets. His father worked with database management for top U.S. defense contract companies and had a family business known as General Database Company.

The Cross Family, JR, Anastasia, and Trey at DRT 2023

JR’s basic information technology (IT) education came at the “School of Dad.” Cross Sr. taught JR about info tech and young JR starting building computers at age 9. He then created his first website at age 12. The site was www. porscheunleashed.netfirms.com (We kid you not – it was a very early personal predisposition to the Porsche marque.) This was in 1998 when a website could be hosted for free with a banner ad. He used a program called Microsoft Frontpage and studied how to “FTP” (File Transfer Protocol) and developed the website. He also worked in the family tech business and used the experience to obtain his first professional position as a help desk technician at nineteen years of age.

JR seeking his own path, relocated to Michigan for greater career opportunities. In the Great Lake state, he worked at the University of Michigan, Domino’s Pizza Corporation, Apple, and several other organizations, all while developing his information technology expertise. His combined length of duty in Michigan came to eight years.

Eventually, this path turned south to Florida in 2019. In Florida JR met Anastasia through an online dating application. This introduction was key to their relationship as Anastasia was born and raised in the Siberia region of Russia. It’s a small world after all.

His current employer is FlexOffers. JR has been a Solutions Architect for the past three years. IT is a very broad area of computer technology, so we’ll leave it to JR to explain what he does. We suspect that he is a very valued and respected associate, given his vast experience in the field.

Being good at his profession has allowed JR to acquire and enjoy seven Porsche vehicles over the years. His

initial foray into PCar was a “very lovely” 944. As a hands-on guy, JR has filmed and produced close to eighty (80) instructional videos which teach viewers most anything they need to know about the 944.

His YouTube channel (FC Imports) has over two thousand subscribers and offers everyone a reason for “why Porsche,” and how not to be afraid to work on your own car. He initially had no skills as a Porsche repairman but was not afraid and took it upon himself to learn and then share his knowledge. Buying this first 944 in a serious state of disrepair, he dove in. He educated himself with Porsche service and repair knowledge, bought parts, replaced them, fixed issues, and generally restored the vehicle.

JR has been sharing his self-acquired Porsche experience on YouTube for eight years. He started with the first 944 (a 1983 model) and followed through with two more 944s (a 1984, and a 1985.2). Each was naturally aspirated and generally in a state of disrespect. JR took each of these three 944s under his care and diligently brought them back into a drivable, reliable, and respectable state. Each was improved and then sold to acquire the next.

His PCar ownership list also included a 1967 912 which he held briefly and flipped to make way for other Porsche projects. During his relocation to Florida, JR sold the toys and was Porsche-less. It wasn’t until he bought the family 2011 Cayenne 3.6 that he realized he needed to ditch an Audi A7 and stop compromising. Time to get back to being fully immersed in Porsche.

After all, there really is no substitute!

It did not take long after removing the Audi from the driveway for JR to procure his first 911, a 2004 996 C4S Cabriolet.

The 996 brought JR into the modern era of Porsche; it was a beauty too. During an event last fall the 996 was presented at Porsche West Broward on the dealership showroom floor along with 20+ other vehicles provided by various owners for the PWB customer appreciation event. The 996 Cab sat in the hall between the showroom and the service area. Its silver color complemented the interior of the dealership and gave an illusion of the vehicle floating in the space. The “top down” photo taken by Patricia Walters is stunning.

Driving in south Florida can be both challenging and nerve-wracking. Sadly, only three weeks after the Porsche West Broward event JR was in the 996 Cabrio and was hit, the resulting damage totaling the car. Those who knew both JR and the

Ms Avia Cross dreaming of her own Porsche

Porsche were devastated. He had been working, polishing, and bringing the vehicle to an excellent level of condition, nearly concours worthy. This has been his mantra with each of his previously owned vehicles. Given the accident everyone was concerned about what would be next for JR. Knowing there are always challenges, setbacks, and untold opportunities in achieving your goals JR shrugged off the havoc caused by the accident and soon found a 2007 Carrera 911S Cabriolet.

The acquisition of the 997 model Carrera took JR out of the “fried egg 996” clan in south Florida. Still, each member of this group was happy for him to remain in the House of Porsche. The 997 Carrera is timeless in its color combination: a black exterior and camel interior; so very classic. The Carrera also brings newfound joy and renewed driving pleasure to a guy who has worked hard for many years to be a Porsche family member.

As a young man in his mid-thirties, there is plenty of open road in front

of him. The Cross family enjoy trips in the Cayenne, the family vehicle. They open the panoramic roof, drop the windows, and roll to the beach on weekend mornings. In the 911, a fun spirited drive is always welcomed as is the meticulous cleaning the Cabrio (and Cayenne) receives after the run. Waxing, leather conditioning, vacuuming is JR’s therapy. Car maintenance is that to many Porsche owners—therapeutic.

As for PCar favorites, the 1979 928 with the dogleg 5-speed is the car. Just leave off the door molding, spoilers, and extra “arrow.” To JR, “the car is a spaceship!” One day in the future, JR would certainly expect to acquire that 1974 Porsche 914 that was mentioned in his dream. Then, as Trey becomes of true “car age” the Cross boys will find a 944 project car for them to re-build together and become Trey’s first Porsche. (Hmmm, a bit like our friend Noah Ratner from a few months ago—we need to check on his progress.)

The growth opportunities in the IT field are endless. There are plans for a home in the future with some adjustments in the housing and home finance markets. Porsche opportunities are similar with incredible potential. Each segment creates its own set of goals for JR to achieve.

Young Trey will be around for some time to bring joy, new challenges, and a chance to pass along Dad’s Porsche passion. Precious Avia can’t wait for her next drop-top ride to Disney World! Anastasia is quite happy with the overall situation; enjoying her life with JR, valuing both Avia and Trey, indulging in the Porsche passion.

JR has a perpetual smile on his face for all he has earned and achieved. Each is grateful for their family life and friendships they develop. It’s a Porsche family, living within the Gold Coast Region Porsche family. Set the goals high, and what great fun it is when they are achieved!

The ‘07 Carrera S Cab - JR is a “Top Down”

GCR PCA 2023 CALENDAR

Thanks to the 2022 Photo Finish contributors for these great images. Keep the submissions coming! - gcr.photofinish@gmail.com

SEBRING FOR 48 HOURS

Groundhog Day is the annual tradition observed every year on February 2nd. Just as traditional for the first weekend in February each year, and for past thirty years, has been the 48 HOURS AT SEBRING, a premier Porsche Club Racing event. The 48 Hours at Sebring involves Porsche race cars, an Autocross, an advanced solo DE, and four very full days of activity at Sebring International Raceway. The bonus comes where nobody has to worry about a furry critter seeing their shadow for two seconds and six additional weeks of cold winter weather.

The 48 Hours weekend of events begins with set-up day on Wednesday, including move-in, registration and technical inspections. The weekend concludes on Sunday with two separate ninety-minute endurance races and roughly three hours of open track solo DE driving. In between drivers, support teams, club volunteers and guests are treated to hours of fantastic on-track action. Porsche Club Racing is a gentleman’s sport, designed as non-contact auto racing, but make no assumption that the competition is anything less than challenging.

The club racers are divided into three major run groups of yellow, green, and red, each with multiple classes per group. These groups comprise classes of Porsche vehicles which are divided by model, age, horsepower, and other vehicle considerations. The goal is to provide generally level racing within the class and run groups.

Track sessions are offered to each of the yellow, green, and red groups for test and tune on Thursday, followed by three practice segments and then a qualifying session on Friday. Saturday morning features a warm-up session

Photos and Article by Kassette staff

followed by two Championship Points races, one for each major group. The points races are each forty-five minutes in length, one in the morning and the second in the afternoon. Finally, Sunday racing involves two endurance races. Here the three groups are recombined into two new groups (black and pink) for the ninetyminute enduro each. Interspersed among these racing activities is a generous amount of advanced solo track time for high performance driver education open driving.

The 48 Hours attracts club racers from all over the country. It is the first club race each year and starts the annual competition for PCA National Club Racing Championship. Being held in the Sunshine State with great weather it is well attended. Roughly 190 racers participated in the 2023 racing with another 80+ advanced solo HPDE drivers taking turns on the track. Driving the historic Sebring course, known as the “Birthplace of American Endurance Racing,” amid the legendary Porsche camaraderie is a win-win.

Throughout the entire weekend, from paddock to track, scoring tower to grid, there is a tremendous amount of communication, consideration, and cooperation among the PCA National folks, the volunteers from Gold Coast Region and Suncoast Region PCA (joint host regions), race teams and visitors. There is a reason the 48 Hours at Sebring is considered the crown jewel of Porsche Club racing.

The event has been held continuously for the past thirty years.

Co-Chairman from Gold Coast Region, Mr. Dan Smithyman, was honored as he stepped down from his leadership position for the past fifteen years. Dan was recognized for his lengthy and successful efforts as Co-Chair with a dedicated brick on the walkway entry to the Gallery of Legends at SIR. There he is enshrined with the likes of Mario Andretti, Dan Gurney, Carol Shelby, and many others in road racing history. Mr. Dave Bassett announced the recognition for Dan. Mr. John Poor of Gold Coast Region has succeeded Dan as Co-Chairman of the 48 Hours to work alongside Josh Breckeen, CoChair from Suncoast Region.

This year’s racing was simply incredible. Each of the run groups was highly competitive. The cars in the yellow group, primarily the trans-axle models (924, 944, 968) and the spec Boxster/Cayman, were exceptionally entertaining. The green group featured many air-cooled 911s and higherpowered Cayman S models. The red group comprised the bigger, faster, water-cooled Porsche models. These included Cayman Clubsport and 991 and 992 Turbo and GT2/GT2RS vehicles. Best lap times for each of the run groups were 2:38 for yellow, 2:20 for green, and 2:08 for red. Fast, each and every one!.

While the advanced solo drivers were not to be checking their lap times, we clocked many in the 2:20 to 2:30 range. They were flying as quickly as the racers with many of the solo drivers in a GT3 model vehicle, or perhaps a highly prepped Cayman S. They did have an advantage in that they were NOT racing, and there was no hinderance to passing, yet “pointby” was mandatory, with drivers of cars being passed required to point to the side they prefer for passing drivers. No matter which group was running, speed on Sebring was evident everywhere.

Practice runs on Thursday, and then qualifying heats and the races on Saturday were all run in spectacularly warm (not hot) Florida sunshine. The cars, drivers and race teams were able to enjoy idyllic racing conditions. Sunday threw the folks a curve with somewhat cooler weather combined with a touch of rain to challenge the best. For both endurance races a light rain dampened the track enough to require rain tires. As the track dried out for each event there was considerable angst about continuing on the rain tires or switching to drytrack slicks.

Of special note was the highly successful weekend for one Florida driver and team. Mr. Angus Rogers of Sarasota, FL, a Suncoast Region member, “Won the Weekend” with three first place finishes in his class. Angus won both of his sprint races in the green group on Saturday, and then came back on Sunday in the enduro, again winning his class when running with the Pink group. The Pink group was comprised of the upper-end green vehicles and the red group vehicles combined. Angus took three bullets! His #9 Cayman S is supported by KMW MOTORSPORTS of Pompano

Beach, with Kevin Wheeler as Chief and an additional crew of six folks. KMW supported four different drivers and their cars during the weekend.

The 48 Hours at Sebring is an exceptional club racing event. It is held a couple quick hours up the road from the Miami-Ft. LauderdaleBoca area and it is the Gold Coast Region premium racing event. The 48 Hours was initiated by GCR in 1993 and joined a couple years later by Suncoast. Today the two Regions work hand-in-hand to provide the preeminent event each February. Look for the Florida flamingos . . . groundhogs need not apply.

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TECHNICAL WIZZARDRY 2023 Presidential Race

Pedro P. Bonilla, Tech Editor

As you may know from my previous articles, I’m one of the two Committee Chairs for Tech & Impound for the 48 Hours at Sebring Club Race. This year, our 30th anniversary, was somewhat hectic the first couple of days because of a lack of personnel, both local and national, due to the bad weather up north and a few illnesses. Nevertheless, our crew picked up the slack and the race went on without a hitch.

On Saturday morning, as things had settled down, I was happy to see an old friend and new PCA President, Aaron Ambrosino stop by the Tech & Impound Circus Tent to say hi. We chatted a bit and I told him that the 48 Hours puts on a great Autocross (AX) event on the track’s skid pad called the Zone 12 AX Challenge, where we get some of the best AX drivers from all of PCA’s Zone 12 and beyond. I told him that he should take the challenge and go run it in my Boxster. I also told him I that I would go with him at noon, just before they break for lunch. He said that he was really tied up, and thanked me anyway. I tried to insist and he politely declined. But, lo and behold, just before noon, Aaron was standing behind me, waiting. (I knew a Spec Boxster Racer like him couldn’t pass up the opportunity to race).

So we got in my car and drove the short distance from the circus tent, over the bridge and onto the Skid Pad. When we arrived, AX had just shut down since the organizers (Steve and Dottie Kidd) were ready to do the Charity Track Tour with many of the AX participants. I introduced our new President to them and told them how we’d tried to be there earlier but couldn’t make it on time and how we’d love to run the course.

Steve said: “Take a reconnaissance lap together so you understand the layout and we’ll leave the timing clock on so you can do your own (private) runs.” I thanked him and we did our parade lap with me at the wheel. Taking my time, I made the run in 58.9 seconds.

When it was done, Aaron got out of the car, and I lined up the Boxster at the starting line to do my first run.

Steve had created a very nice layout in the limited constraints of the Sebring Skid Pad.

Leaving the start line I trip the electronic eye that sets the timing clock into motion. Immediately heading to the edge of the tarmac I make a hard left followed by a quick slalom. Then a long and fast sweeping left sets me up for a series of tight slaloms and a Key West Box that dumps me right onto the slippery Skid Pad itself, where I have to negotiate one-and one half laps and be prepared to finish with a trio of very hard left-right-left turns and a final short straight to the other electronic eye which stops the clock.

All of the above needs to be navigated without hitting a single cone, since hitting them generates a one second penalty for every cone hit.

Aaron is watching my run with eagle eyes!

I’m able to stop the clock at 55.3XX seconds.

I look at the time and know I can do much better still.

I now prepare myself for my second and last run.

Now the race is on! It’s against the clock, but it’s against another fierce competitor that I know will do his best. I manage to get another clean run and the finish-line clock shows 53.755 seconds.

It’s a good run. I hope it holds up.

I get out of my car, take off my helmet and hand over both to Aaron. He sets up the car at the start line and takes off!

I’m now the one with the eagle eyes. He does a clean run. It’s in the 56 second range. I can’t see the last digits from the starting line. He comes around for his second and final lap and takes off like he was stealing my car!

I run to the finish line while keeping an eye on his run. I’ve got to see the final time.

It’s a clean run and it’s going to be tight.

I see my beautiful car being accelerated, gyrated and stopped like I would do it and then the clock stops!

The President beats me, in my own car, by a mere 0.08 seconds. Aaron was ecstatic. He kept showing me his index finger, meaning first!

It was a fair race and I lost (by a tiny margin) But It’ll haunt me for the rest of my life ;)

It reads 53.675 seconds!!!

I accepted my defeat (kind of) but kept thinking, ”How did that happen?” Aaron is a good driver, he knows the Boxster, but how did he beat me? And then it dawned on me, and when he showed me that index finger again, I told him: :You know you beat me because I warmed up the tires for you!”

Thank you, Mr. President. I had a great time. Next time, let’s do it in your car!

For more information on Club Racing, AX and more, please visit my website: www PedrosGarage.com.

Happy Porsche’ing, Pedro

Ⓒ2023 Technolab / PedrosGarage.com

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Classified Ads

2016 981 Cayman GTS

2018 and 2019 1st place winner concours d’elegance PCA Goldcoast region best in class award! 28k miles. $72,900. For details, search PCA mart Classified Ads: 51049.

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There is one year and unlimited milage available on the CPO. Paint protection and a Becker exhaust was installed. I have the original exhaust. 45,600 miles. This is garage kept and a weekend car. $50,999 Paul Orofino 407-496-0019 Cell paul@mdsinc.me

996

996 Turbo front hood black in good condition

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Wheelchair for Porsche

Steel Transport Chair with Permanent Full-Length Arms, Swing-Away Footrest, Large 12” wheels, seat belt. Fits in the trunk of a Porsche. Like new only used a few times. Colors are burgundy and grey, lightweight 23.5 lbs. 300 lbs weight capacity. $175 Contact Roger Fabel at rfabel@aol.com.or text 954 752-2501. Text 954 752-2501.

Garage Sale

(2) Bridgestone RE71R 245/40-18 NEW..200 treadwear Ultra high performance stickers still on. Never mounted and garage stored last 3 years $275 for both. FIRM

(2) BFG Rival 245/40-18 200 treadwear AutoX performance tires. Used for 1 AutoX 6/32 tread remaining, date code 3916 $90.OBO

(1) Federal RSR 265/40-18, 200 treadwear AutoX performance tire 4/32 remaining date code 0120 $50.00

OEM Cat back stock muffler for 2009-2012 Boxster or Cayman S, great cond..If you don›t like that load, droning so called performance system that the prior owner installed, try this $275

Front Nose for 944 Turbo or S2, Broken Louvers repaired (they all break...trust me). pretty good condition, but will need final sanding and paint. $250. Wont fit regular 944 unless you get turbo/s2 fenders Call Steve 954 292-3915

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PHOTO FINISH

Living in Paradise

Lisa Cohen submitted this photo of her 2022 Spyder taken on the Sanibel Causeway three weeks before hurricane Ian made landfall on September 28th, 2022.

Lisa had been looking to custom order a Targa and when she learned that there would be a one-anda-half year wait, she found another option. “I did not want to wait that long for my next Porsche,” said Lisa. She came across a low-mileage 2022 Spyder in Fort Myers that she immediately purchased. The Spyder’s color is a stunning Shark Blue. She also has a Panamera for driving around town. Lisa is a Gold Coast member who currently resides in Naples. She attends GCR events as well as events with other Porsche groups such as the Paradise Region Gruppe. She really enjoys driving her Spyder in rallies. It was on a rally when this photo was taken. “I love living in Paradise,” says Lisa.

The Shark Blue convertible Spyder with the bay and distant cityscape in the background really captures the essence of enjoying a drive in South Florida—our paradise. Even though the Sanibel Causeway reopened to the general public earlier this year, many places remain closed and fenced off since Sanibel is still rebuilding after hurricane Ian.

As for Lisa’s dream Targa? She said that she is starting to shop for one again to add to her collection.

Lisa took this photo with an Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max.

Have a cool picture of your Porsche? Then submit it with a description to gcr.photofinish@gmail.com

Christy Spangler, Photo Editor