SIMRACING

Thriving in the POC SIM Racing League

Michael Bolten

In the fast-paced world of motorsports, one community stands out for its remarkable ability to bring people together— the POC Sim Racing League. Regardless of backgrounds or skill levels, individuals from all walks of life converge in this incredible community, forming lasting friendships, sharing experiences, and pushing themselves to new levels. For me, being a part of this incredible league has been a transformative journey, filled with valuable lessons, unexpected connections, and a shared passion for racing.

Last year, my goal was to consistently secure a top-five position in every race I participated in. While I didn’t achieve this feat in every race, the pursuit of my objective brought me faceto-face with the fact I needed to reach out to my community to better my driving in order to reach my goal at the end. As I navigated the exhilarating world of POC racing, I soon discovered that the journey itself was as valuable as the destination. Not only did the POC allow me to make P1 in friendships, but I ended up P3 overall at the end of the season. One of the most remarkable aspects of the POC Racing League is its ability to foster connections between individuals. These shared experiences not only solidified our bonds but also opened doors to valuable coaching opportunities. It was an honor to receive guidance from racing legend Michael Johnson, whose insights and expertise propelled me to new levels of performance. I truly seem his more as family than another car on the track.

As with any community, the POC Racing League has undergone changes over time. This year, the league introduced bi-annual seasons with fixed setups, presenting a new set of challenges and opportunities. The introduction of fixed setups brought an interesting blend of frustration and excitement, as racers had to adapt their strategies and techniques to suit the new dynamics. Despite the initial frustrations, this transition ultimately strengthened the camaraderie among POC participants, as we collectively faced and overcame the obstacles together.

After this season, the POC has given me the privilege of being part of the Comp Committee; a dedicated group of individuals committed to enhancing the overall experience for all participants. Moving forward, I cannot wait to immerse myself in this committee and attain a deeper understanding of the inner workings of the league and will allow me to contribute to making the POC the pinnacle of I-Racing.

The POC Racing League embodies the power of community, showcasing the remarkable ability of people from diverse backgrounds to come together and share a common passion. My personal journey within this community has been marked by unforgettable experiences, meaningful friendships, and an unyielding pursuit of excellence. The POC has taught me the value of perseverance, the strength of collective support, and the transformative power of shared experiences. As I continue to race and grow within this awesome community, I am grateful for the opportunities it has provided, and eagerly anticipate the future season that lies ahead.