PORSCHER
Voice of Vancouver Island Region
Volume 28 Issue 2, April 2025 Porsche Club of America
The Passion for Driving
President
Paul Rossmo president@virpca.org
Vice President
Ron Dempsey vicepresident@virpca.org
Secretary Kevin Root secretary@virpca.org
Director North Island
Marc Klijnsmit northisland@virpca.org
Director South Island
Ray Gumbel southisland@virpca.org
Treasurer
Peter D. Everett treasurer@virpca.org
Webmaster Chair
Dave Nickel webmaster@virpca.org
Rally Chair
Klaus Kreye rally@virpca.org
Director Mid Island
Didier Moinier midisland@virpca.org
Database IT Chair
Steve Fairbrother steve.fairbrother@gmail.com
Insurance Chair
James Renfrew porsche@jamesrenfrew.com
Events Chair
Tim Evans events@virpca.org
Membership Chair
Larissa Lawrence membership@virpca.org
Tech / Classics Chair
Paul Rossmo paul.rossmo@prhistorics.com
Past President
Garth Webber Atkins pastpresvir@shaw.ca
Magazine Chair
Karen Bresler editor@virpca.org
VIRPCA members have shown that winter (albeit our mild West Coast version) still offers many opportunities for us to get together at Porsche events.
We have returned to ‘in-person’ monthly board meetings with a twist. We are choosing enjoyable venues, and hoping members will come join us. We get together an hour early to socialize and welcome everyone to stay for the meeting if they choose. Our March meeting was held at Quattro Bambini in Cowichan. The food and service was excellent and they set up a separate area for us.
I really enjoy members joining us for the evening, and thanks to their creative ideas we will have several new events to enjoy this year. For example Uli Jaeckel joined in and initiated a great south island drive which he and Ray Gumbel scheduled.
Cars & Coffee attendance remained strong up and down the Island, and I encourage you to come join in. If you have been hesitant to join us, I can assure you a warm welcome awaits with a diverse array of Porsches and friendly faces. Call or message your area representative to let us know you’re coming, and we will be able to meet you and introduce you to other members.
There is a feeling that only driving a Porsche can provide, It’s time to ‘Burn-some-gas!’ I’m often asked why I seek out all the backroads and twisties when the highway would be a quicker way to get to my destination. I believe that ‘those who ask will never understand, and those who understand will never ask’. In a Porsche, I’m always sad to see the drive end.
We all seem to share a passion for driving, and as a club we want to recognize this. We are working towards bringing back a version of the ’25 Roads’ event we ran a few years ago. There will be some changes, with additional categories with Islands and off-road experiences. This will be a goal rather than an event. A way for members to share their favourite drives and encourage exploring our beautiful Island. Recognition for completing these drive packages would come in the form of a pin / car decal. It would be another invitation to share experiences. We are currently determining the best platform to offer this to our members, stay tuned.
A club’s success is determined by member’s efforts. To reflect participation, later this year you will see three different name tags. Gold for members, Platinum for members who have volunteered to help with an event, and Black for those who have served as a board member or chair person.
We have many talented and experienced people in the club and need your participation to put on the level of events we have come to enjoy. Volunteering to help with an event is a great way to meet other members and build friendships. Every event can use a little extra help, please reach out to a board member or contact me directly at president@virpca.org Paul
This was an exciting issue to prepare as the daffodils and tulips push out of the ground, notwithstanding the remnants of a lingering Winter. The Executive has been filling the calendar with exciting events, and the Porsches are being polished for the driving season ahead. One thing I know from my conversations with members is you LOVE to drive, and so do I, so I decided to look into why we have such passion for driving. This month’s FeatureArticleis a brief foray into the body of research on the topic, illustrated with VIRPCA members’ stories and experience.
OurMemberSpotlight is on Gary Glover, the man always on the move, who states “Cars are meant to be driven”. A long–time, dedicated VIRPCA and PCA member, Gary parked his Cayman long enough for me to take some notes on his many Porsche journeys so we can all be inspired to clock up the miles like he does, pg. 26. The season opener F1 race was an “edge of your seat” kind of race and I received reports in real time from this month’sRovingReporter,Gordon Halkett who attended the Melbourne race and handed out VIRPCA pins at PCA events pg. .33. I hope you enjoy Gordon’s report as much as I did. TechTalkby Paul Rossmo, pg. 43, discusses improving driving performance. TheRallyReport , pg. 37, puts us through the paces of what is possible when you have to get somewhere on time.
PORSCHER is published quarterly, in the months of April, July, October and January
TheMembershipReport,IntheZone–Zone6andRegionalReports highlight the activity behind the scenes. Chroniclescontains photos and stories from the past.
RoadTrips,Cars&Coffee has all the details on who has been doing what. AroundTheBendhighlights upcoming events and this season opener issue has many full page ads for events by event organizers to tempt you to sign up.
Gallery,features the art of John Clark’s friend, Malcolm Fletcher; you will find911WaystoUseYourPorsche ; and many a pampered pet can be found in a Porsche, for all to admire in Porsche Pets.
I also want to thank our advertisers who support the magazine, including our members who advertise with us. We have a few new advertisers and I welcome them to the magazine. Please let the advertisers know you enjoyed their advertisements and appreciate their support.
Please send your Letters to the Editor, submissions and photographs to editor@virpca.org. The Porscher is the voice of the Vancouver Island Region of the PCA and the magazine evolves when you engage. Please join in the enjoyment of all the people and cars that makes us VIRPCA.
Letters to the Editor...
Dear Karen Bresler, Editor
The 81 page January, 2025, issue of Porscher is one of the best organized, well written newsletters I have read. It captures what a Porsche car club is. Your Feature section on the "Women of VIRPCA" illustrates how women members enrich and contribute to the very fabric and texture of our Club.
The Editor's outstanding writing style flows naturally, taking us on a delightful journey that reveals seven women’s diverse personalities. With investigative journalist skills the Editor mined deeply to a personal and almost visceral level, sharing with readers what attracted these women to driving Porsches: their passion for their cars; and their appreciation for the exhaust note, precise control, exhilaration, power and speed.
The back stories for these adventurous women members in this club set out an array of their diverse skills and unique experiences: Track and Rallying, Yachting, Equestrian, Business/Professional, Falconry, Pit crew, Cancer survivor, Managing an African safari encampment, Wood art, or Driving a Harley. Copious professional-quality photos added depth, really completing the picture.
I was impressed with the delicate, sensitive way in which the Editor handled the "In Memoriam" section of two members' life journeys through to their dignified planned departures.
The Editor succeeds in showing that the Gender Gap is narrowing, will equalize, if not change direction. The minority who think Tracking is a male bastion should start looking in their rear-view mirrors - and to start practicing their on-track wave-bys (which I've already experienced).
A good read. Thank you.
Bob Drew, Victoria.
356A&B (3); Bxtr (2);TTX50, MacanS
In Memoriam
Lee Warren Odgers
February 3, 1969 - January 28, 2024
EditorsNote:WehaverecentlyreceivedwordofLeeOdger’spassinginJanuary2024.Pleaseseebelow thecopyofthearticlethatappearedintheNanaimoNewsBulletinonJanuary29,2024.Ifanyonehasany contributionsonthelifeofLee,pleaseemailmeateditor@virpca.organdwecanincludeitinthenext issue.Ifyoubecomeawareofamemberpassing,pleasenotifytheExecutiveortheEditorassoonaspossiblesothatwecanhonourtheirmemory.
In loving memory ~
A man who loved his life, his career, adventures, and most of all, his family and friends.
Lee leaves behind his soulmate and loving wife Kim, parents Bud and Nadine, children Brianna and Dylan, step-daughter Josie, sister Mahri (Rob), brother Jamie (Tara), niece Elle and Nicola, nephews Daniel, Matthew, and Jack.
Lee was born and raised in Nanaimo. He graduated from NDSS in 1987 and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of British Columbia in 1991.
Lee loved music and worked at Ferguson Music, the family business for many years. He later became a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and built a successful practice with Freedom 55 Financial (Canada Life). A few years ago he partnered up with Coralee Katzberg under Benson View Private Wealth. Throughout his career, Lee was recognized by his colleagues for his leadership and excellence in the business.
Lee generously gave his time and energy to all those he touched, and he will always be remembered for the impact he had on his friends, family, and colleagues. Among Lee's many community service contributions, he was a member of the Nanaimo Serauxman Club as well as a leader and advocate for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JRDF).
Lee was a genuine friend to everyone, a mentor to many, and a joyful inspiration to be around. He was an exceptional person with a zest for life, a passion for personal development, and a very long bucket list that he was actively checking off. He was a very fun and funny man that touched so many with his kind and generous spirit.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation are appreciated. https://www.jdrf.ca/give/
A Lee Odgers Memorial Scholarship has also been established with the Nanaimo Ladysmith Schools Foundation. https:// www.canadahelps. org/en/dn/24199
A celebration of life will be held at the Beban Park Social Centre in Nanaimo on Sunday, February 18th (2024) at 1 P.M. Always loved, never forgotten... Until we meet again.
https://www.nanaimobulletin.com/obituaries/lee-warren-odgers-7317240? utm_source=Email_Share&utm_medium=Email_Share&utm_campaign=Email_Share
Island Adventure 2025
By Ron Dempsey, Vice President
The theme of this issue is driving, and what better time to start thinking about road trips than spring? We have so much available to us to explore on our magnificent island, but have you taken the time to see all the (paved) roads we have?
Photos: Submitted by Ron Dempsey
In that spirit, I'm organizing our second 'Island Adventure' from Wednesday June 18 until Friday, June 20. Although weekdays can be challenging for some of us, we wanted to hit the road before the summer rush.
If you didn't join us last time we did this in 2022, the Island Adventure is a non-competitive rally where a driver and navigator follow a route book but don't know what we've arranged for destinations or accommodations. We'll start north of the Malahat and end north of Nanaimo, but in between is a surprise. Those that attended in 2022 really enjoyed themselves, so together with Dave Hord of Classic Car Adventures we have quite the journey planned for you.
Registration will open soon and is limited to 18 cars, so pencil in the date, confirm your co-driver and prepare to have a great time.
Ron Dempsey vicepresident@virpca.org
The Passion for Driving
By Karen Bresler
Photo credit as specified
What draws people to driving cars beyond utility? There are as many stories as there are enthusiasts. It’s a blend of biology, psychology and personal preference based on our nature and our upbringing.
Several themes emerge in research on this topic. This article investigates the passion for driving automobiles which have been around only since 1886, a mere 139 years ago.
We also take a look at what the activity of driving gives us on many different levels. Through the lens of these themes, we hear from VIRPCA members about their driving experiences, and with their Porsches in particular.
History of the Automobile
On January 29, 1886, Karl Benz applied for a patent for his vehicle powered by a gas engine. He founded Benz & Cie. The name Mercedes comes from Emil Jellinek who was involved with Daimler-Motoren Gesellschaft in the early 1900’s. He insisted the cars he sold be named Mercedes, after his daughter. Later, Benz & Cie merged with them, hence Mercedes-Benz. The rest is history.
Photo: Karen Bresler
Photo: Wyman Lee, submitted by Didier Moinier
Much like the wolf domesticated into the family as the household dog, cars have become an extension of the driver’s identity and a large part of the fabric of society. Cars, for some, embody freedom, allowing us to travel great distances at a greater speed than ever before, while clearing the cobwebs from our brains and growing stronger neural pathways. Connection, often stated as the number one need of humans, can be found in the shared passion and the numerous car clubs around the world.
History informs the next generation. Upbringing or “nurture” moulds us. Tara Hastings illustrates this in her story of why she has owned a succession of Porsche, and drives Porsche today.
The first Porsche was built in 1948, in Gmund, Austria. Ferdinand Porsche's son, Ferry, built his own car to meet his exacting standards for an automobile. Pictured below is a photo of Porsche #1 taken by Paul Rossmo at the 1982 Porsche Parade in Reno Nevada.
Part of the allure of driving and driving a Porsche, comes from her family history: “It occurs to me”, she says, “that a sense of nostalgia and fond memories with my Dad and uncles are also woven into my feelings about Porsches. My Dad was a mechanic by profession, and was also capable as a welder, metal fabricator and all-round handy person. My Dad had been rebuilding cars and creating hot-rods since he was a teenager, as did his two brothers. All of them became mechanics, and one became very involved in motorsports as a suspension specialist and later a track official. There was always a sense of fun and excitement around hot-rods and sports cars in our family.
In 1953 the first production Porsche racing car was unveiled at the Paris Auto Show.
Cars have only increased in importance in the lives of humans ever since.
“In 1985, when I was 15, my parents said they would give me $2,000 to buy a car, as long as I paid for the gas and insurance. I started combing the classified ads in the local newspaper, searching for a cool car within the budget. I eventually found a 1972 Porsche 914 for sale that was described as "Needing work".
Submitted: “Before” 1972 Porsche 914
My Dad and I went to look at it, and it was driveable but had some rust. It needed a bit of mechanical work and a good amount of autobody work. I suggested that it could be a Dad and daughter summer project. He agreed with the concept, but said I would have to do most of the work and he would supervise.
Above Photo from the personal collection of Hans-Peter Schlosser. Obtained from an article written in Autoblog by Jonathon Ramsey, June 12, 2012
Bottom: Porsche #1 1
Photo: Paul Rossmo
“That summer, we worked together to restore the 914 and change it from the original orange colour to bright red. We removed the rusty bits, replaced a few parts (e.g., the rocker panels were completely rusted, so we pulled them off and my Dad fabricated new metal ones), welded in new metal on the body where needed, and then I set about the laborious task of sanding and painting the car in our home garage. It took many coats of undercoat followed by much sanding, and then a few coats of bright red paint (and more sanding in between coats).
“In the process, I learned a lot about mechanics and autobody work. I drove it after I turned 16 and got my driver's licence, and it was an absolute blast to bomb around in. It didn't have massive power (which is just as well for a young driver with not much sense of fear) but the handling was amazing due to the midengine layout and lightness of the car. I drove it for several years.
“Although my Dad and one of his brothers have now passed away, I still feel a sense of fun and excitement around sports cars, and Porsches
Tara goes on to mention that she’s had a few Porsches since the 914. “I've had a 924, a Boxster, and now a 2007 Cayman S. Driving my Porsche is basically about having fun and feeling a sense of playfulness and joy because the car is so responsive and agile.”
A Mix of Factors
The enjoyment of driving is a complex mix of genetics, psychology and personal preferences, influenced by doses of dopamine - the whole nature and nurture debate. Two key aspects that contribute to this love for driving are the biological need for novelty and exploration and the emotional connection to vehicles. A desire for a oneness with nature and its healing properties often seals the deal.
Photo: Ken Mclean
Photo submitted: Tara Hastings at the wheel
Submitted: The “After” Photo
Photo: John Bowling
The Allure of Driving and Porsche
Allure is defined by Oxford Languages as “thequality ofbeingpowerfullyandmysteriously attractiveor fascinating.”
This definition could easily be used to describe a Porsche, so lets start there. We love driving and we love Porsche Why?
It’s the beauty of a Porsche’s lines, the sounds from the engine and the sophisticated engineering that people speak to when you ask them. The way the car represents their personality in their world; the way it feels to drive it; the places it takes them, whether physically, mentally and spiritually. It’s the comradeship and social connection around a common passion and shared values.
reclamation, returning something to a former, better state, symbolic of changing, adapting, and overcoming. Fittingly, this photo was taken on the Royal Roads campus with a feathered resident, a university passionate about empowering change-makers.”
A different kind of change-making happens when we drive. Neural pathways are created when we learn anything. When driving, we are attending to a number of things at the same time like watching the road, driving the vehicle and responding to changes in conditions. This causes our brains to reorganize the neurons- which is called neuroplasticity. In a study in 2000, researchers found that since driving involves navigating and memory, the hippocampi of brains of London Cab Drivers grew larger. This must surely make a case for us not to rely so heavily on technology to navigate
Driving influences our mood in a positive way by activating hormones that make us happier.
Kevin Root’s 911 Carrera S pictured above, reflecting the peacock standing beside it, is the epitome of beauty. He has entitled it “Beauty reflected!” Kevin goes on to say: “Driving is more than just tires and roads; it’s all about connection, not just driver-to-machine or a journey through urban jungles with loved ones, but smiles with strangers and memories shared amongst friends, a knowing nod exchanged amongst fellow enthusiasts who are passionate about sharing experiences, knowledge, and encouragement, communicated through the form and function of design.”
Speaking about his Porsche in particular he says: "this car celebrated overcoming, representing
It is a way to obtain stress relief, and decompress after a busy day. It can be a sanctuary as it provides a space where you can be on your own to think and clear your mind. Driving home after a busy day at work, even though often in traffic, can be a way to process workplaces stress, before walking in the door at home and greeting your family. In that way, it is a transition zone between activities or roles.
Photo: Karen Bresler
Driving as a form of Freedom
The research indicates that many of us drive as means of escape. And not in the jailbreak sense. Rather as an escape from the daily tribulations of living in a world that has become increasingly noisy and complicated. Driving is often the only way to have solitude; to be mindful and come back to one’s self. Just driver, vehicle and the road ahead. This feeling is usually described as freedom or a clearing of your mind.
on the road. With the sun coming up behind me, I drove over a rise and realized I really could see all the way to the horizon and nothing, not a person, not a building, nothing but the road ahead and as if on cue, there it was tumbleweed blowing down the highway in front of me. I had to stop the car and get out. It was truly the most amazing panorama I had ever seen. Unless you have experienced something like this for yourself there is no way to convey the sense of space, the colours, the sounds or the smell. You can only live this in the middle of nowhere and you only get there with a car….
“I consider myself very fortunate to have made that
Member Don Gosse tells his story of his trip over to Vancouver Island from Toronto: “I love to drive and driving has always been a way to decompress, clear my head and a car represented the freedom to get away.
“I chose to leave Toronto in 1992 and move to Vancouver Island...I left on a March morning with the car loaded down and only one key on the key chain my car key. That sense of freedom and adventure is pretty hard to beat and the trip proved to be an amazing experience. The things you see on a cross country trip and the people you talk to, its all very hard to put into words. To see the countryside change across a large distance or to see a storm coming from over 100 miles away is something you have to experience for yourself. Pictures could never do it justice.
“I think it was day five or six and I was up early and
same trip many times since and on each return home, it always feels the same...when I see those cars headed east driving back up into the mountains, I just want to turn around and do it all over again.”
Matthew B. Crawford states in his bookWhyWe Drive:
“...driving is a rich and varied practice. As with any such practice, a full consideration of it can focus light of a particular hue on what it means to be human. It can also shed light on the challenge ofremaininghuman against technologies that tend to enervate, and claim cultural authority in doing so. The boosters of driverless cars are unimpressed with pleasure as an idea and suspicious of individual judgement.” (Matthew B. Crawford,WhyWeDrive Harper Collins Publishers, USA 2020 pg.7)
Driving as a form of connection with nature and in the spirit of adventure
Don Gosse touched on driving as a form of connection with nature as he connected with the vastness of nature on his adventures across country.
Joe Godard paints an equally spectacular picture of this connection: ”My wife, Joy, and I love the top down and a new road. One of my favorite drives in the last twelve months was to Myra falls, at the head of Buttle Lake. The scenery at the start of the lake is enough to make you feel like you are very small, compared to the grandeur of the mountains. The fresh lake air mixed with the forested mountains is
enough to occupy your mind, unless you are trying to push the pavement behind you. Then your brain tries to stress your reflexes and inhale the stunning scenery at the same time. It will clear your head and fill it simultaneously.”
The Need for Speed– driving as a form of control or to compete
Zone 6 representative, John Sommerwerck used this photo in his “In the Zone” report of June 2024. It captures the energy and passion for speed and points to the focus required to operate either of these specialized pieces of machinery. The photo, taken by Brad Pape is of the Royal Canadian Air Force F104 and
Brad and Kelly Pape’s 911, at the 2024 the BC Interior Region’s “Shades of Stuttgart”. Photo:
Our Didier Moinier has this in his world too. A pilot and a Porsche enthusiast, Didier says “I have an Airline Transport Pilot license and I retired a year ago. Most of my flying was in helicopters ( I am endorsed on 15 different types of helicopters). I love flying because of the high standard and quality of the helicopters, same reason I love Porsches, all high standard of technique, safety and performance. I started to fly in 1970 and retired in 2024. I bought my first Porsche in January 2011, I still have my 993 of 1997 Cabriolet, and I love driving it
In VIRPCA, we have numerous members with varied experience with racing. We talked with the President, Paul Rossmo who advised that “ it has been said that racing and mountain climbing are 'Sports' and everything else are just games. Consequences are what drive that outlook.”
Brad Pape
Photos: Above and Below- Joe Godard
Paul goes on to say that “on the formation lap with the cars all weaving back and forth, we experience a thrill and anticipate that when the flag drops all of our work and efforts will lead to victory. Winning is both elusive and addictive. Even my worst day racing is fondly remembered, and winning was always one of the best days of my life. “
“Winningisbothelusiveandaddictive.”
Vice President Ron Dempsey adds his thoughts answering the question of “Why” we love driving with this observation: “Driving to me is an expression of freedom, but also of pursuing mastery over machinery. ‘Regular' and car people alike are surprised when I say I'm not really into horsepower, I'm into finding the edge of cornering ability, or sideways G's. Getting closer and closer to the limits of adhesion is a constant pursuit regardless if you're in a 356 on skinny tires or something newer with three times the rubber on the ground.
“I guess that's why Porsche is the brand for me - their racing history and engineering excellence bring a mentality to test the limits of what a machine can do, and that appeals to me greatly.”
“Drivingtomeisanexpressionof freedom,butalsoofpursuingmastery overmachinery”
Trace Hart compares racing in a Porsche to equestrian sport. “Its like riding a horse in a gallop!” Trace emphasizes, “Adrenaline! Excitement in the belly! Gives you Fizz, as James May would say” she laughs.
Above: Photo submitted by Ron Dempsey Ron Dempsey, driving the BMW. Below : Photo submitted Ron Dempsey
Photo above,& below submitted: Above: Paul Rossmo, racing his 1996 911 at Westwood. Below: Winning 356
PaulRossmo
Psychology and Cars as extensions of the owner's personality
Psychology is behind all our choices. We operate from our individual lenses formed both by our nature and our nurture. Our experiences have shaped us to be the very unique being that we are. When we have free choice buying a car, and a budget that gives us ultimate choice, our personalities and social standing will usually be reflected in the final decision. Cars are often regarded as an extension of one’s personality in the same way a home reflects it. It’s a statement as to your level of achievement, your wealth and even your cultural influences. It’s often a status symbol and a statement as to your views on many things. A need for speed, an appreciation for outstanding engineering? A statement of power? An invitation? It is as many things as there are personalities but one thing is for sure– the psychological connection can be found in a human being’s longing for social validation and self expression. We pour our personality all over the inanimate vehicle and it comes alive for us. This is why so many cars have names. Sometimes the name given is a deeper aspect of the person’s personality that wants more expression or recognition. A shadow aspect of the owners personality perhaps? As in there is a quality in yourself you don’t allow to be expressed or fully expressed but you resonate with it and project it on to your car. That is just one possible manifestation of the car being an extension of the owner’s personality.
Lynn Duplessis reflects on this and states that she is “so connected to my Porsche, it’s like my dance partner.” This partnership with our vehicle is indicative of how our personality extends beyond us and is reflected back to us in our choices.
DNA profiler, Dr. Denise Bjorkman, highlights that there is a DNA gene range mix which predicts different types of behaviour. One category of the mix is “Adventure, exploration, novelty, challenge and love of nature” behaviours. Driving would fall into the range of seeking stimulation in the outdoors, novelty and new terrains, discovery. She says: “the enjoyment of driving is a complex mix of genetics, psychology, microbiology, and personal preferences, influenced by cell receptors and doses of dopamine. The DRD4-7R variant, often called the “novelty-seeking gene” is associated with dopamine regulation in the brain. People with this variant tend to crave new experiences, adventure and stimulation– traits that can make driving, especially long road trips or off-roading, deeply satisfying. Some people are drawn to high-performance cars because thrill seeking (also linked to DRD4-7R) is associated with enjoying risk and adrenaline rushes, such as fast driving or off-roading.”
Self-expression, Society and Connection as a Car Club
Sarah Munro says “my Cayenne S perfectly balances practicality and performance. It’s large enough to carry everything I need for events, for my growing small business (Peanut Butter Kisses & Treats) whether it’s gear, tents, or supplies - yet still delivers the thrill of performance and luxury that makes driving so enjoyable. It’s more than just transportation; it is a part of my journey, whether on the road or in my work.” This is Sarah’s second Cayenne. She fell in love with the luxury brand of Porsche after obtaining her first Cayenne in 2004. She says she loves that Porsche stands behind their vehicle and she has found a supportive community in attending Cars and Coffee. On this she say:” The community behind Cars & Coffee and how we can support each other is pretty cool. It gives a feeling of family.” Sarah goes on to add an extra dimension to her choice and that is the safety of her family. A blended family of three, Sarah chose the Cayenne specifically because it is a family vehicle. She laughs and says “We can’t fit into Martin’s Boxster”. Speaking of the youngest, Sarah says its important to her that Brandi is safe and enjoys the car as much as they do. In a world where women usually multi task with child-rearing and business, Sarah has found a way to do it all with her Cayenne. And she says somewhat shyly, that when she upgraded to her latest Cayenne, it made her “feel a little bit more powerful”
Packing the Cayenne. Photo submitted,
A family of Porsches: Photo Submitted
Don Gosse touches on the connection formed from a shared passion when he concludes, in describing his drive from Toronto to Vancouver Island: “More than 30 years later I love driving even more and still nothing beats a road trip, so it should come as no surprise that I own a Porsche and have truly enjoyed membership within PCA for the last ten years. Like minds and a shared experience, it doesn't get any better!”
Summary
Mathew Crawford in “Why We Drive” (2020 pg. 40) states that “According to the Pew Center, more than two -thirds of Americans sometimes sing in their cars while driving. Behind the wheel, we seem to be released from social observation as though we were in the shower! There is a subtler form of release as well, from a pressure that is harder to define. If your commute is going smoothly, it doesn't take up much of your awareness, leaving you free to daydream….”. Maybe that is the ultimate reason. Driving lets us dream!
Gary Glover - The Journey of a Thousand
miles (or more)
By Karen Bresler
A well known member of VIR/PCA for over 27 years, Gary Glover is hard to track down, mainly because he never stops moving. Describing himself as a person who has “always had cars”, Gary, at age 16 discovered cars were useful in attracting the attention of women. “When I normalized and become an adult, I decided I needed a sportscar.”
Photos: as credited
Photo: Karen Bresler
Gary’s first sports car was a green 1972 914. He had that for six months and all he did with it was drive it. This car was traded in for a VW Beetle Superbug and he has stayed with German cars ever since. Reintroduced to a Porsche by his son, his interest was perpetuated when his brother-in-law bought a 911. Gary’s first drive in a Porsche 911 was with the Porsche Club on a trip to Tofino for the weekend. Not members yet, telephone calls were made and Gary attended with his brother-in-law’s Porsche.
“Carsaremeanttobedriven”
to the River” event at Painter’s Lodge in Campbell River from 2000-2002. In 2003 the annual event was on Mount Washington. Gary was also involved in Crown Crowne Isle in Courtenay from 2004-2009 and instrumental in Blackrock from 2010 until 2015. He says wryly:” That became the same thing as being President, I could not get out of it” Eventually he said “that’s it” and Dan Bourlet took over Black Rock.
Janice, Gary’s wife, suggested they get their own Porsche. Two weeks later, they had found a 1982 911 SC in Victoria under a car cover. “As soon as I took the cover off that was it!” Gary said. This was the Spring of 1998.
Someone in the club suggested Gary should go in the concours at Parade and Gary thought that sounded like a good idea. Gary laughs and blames “Ernie K, Ernie Y, and Al K” “It’s their fault that I do everything” he says. “Then over the years it just evolved”, and evolve it did. Gary went on to become a significant member in VIR/PCA. He has had many roles: newsletter editor for a while (Gary say: ”I didn’t like that that much”); Mid-Island Director; President for a consecutive period of seven years, “Every year I threatened to quit” Gary is currently the PCA Zone Rep for Zone 11, which is the Alaska, Hawaii and Big Island Hawaii Regions. Gary is also a strong influence or a member on committees for many events. At one point Gary and five other members “decided we needed an event that wasn’t a race event where police were looking for us.” This became the “Spring
Gary starts our talk on his passion for driving by saying that his sense of adventure is driven by the appeal of something different. “There are a lot more places to go than just on the island. You can only drive on the paved roads and the gravel roads on this island so many times. There are so many places to go and things to see and cars are meant to be driven and not parked. Sure, you can park them and make them look nice but they are meant to be driven.”
The Glovers put, Gary says, “only about 200,000 km” on the first Porsche 911 SC. After five years they upgraded to a 964 “It had more creature comforts so we could keep doing what we were doing.” Gary says, also explaining that they usually “drag two, four, six couples with us often for around 12 days at a time. We are all still great friends 25 years later.”
When Gary bought the Cayman, the 964 had over 230,000 km on it. It was sold because Gary had been invited to a Porsche event in Ontario in 2011. He drove a new Cayman on track. “I loved it”, he says emphatically, and said “I got to get me one of these and I went back to work for seven years for that!” It currently has 226,000 km on it. “We have been all over with it, all over the West Coast, even back to Missouri.
Gary and Janice at their very first Porsche event in Tofino. Photo submitted
Gary, making a speech at Black Rock
Photo submitted 1993 964
“When I have sold cars, people ask what’s wrong with it. High mileage no problem. If you don’t drive it, you get problems”
Gary says that when you drive on the back roads, you meet people and visit the neatest towns. “You will find people with Porsches and they find you” he says. At one hotel, they were approached by people who said they had heard there were Porsches in town and had sought them out for a meet and greet.
An Adventurous Spirit
Gary admits to having an adventurous spirit. “I think I drove from Lake Tahoe to the island and only went onto the I5 once and that was because we missed a turnoff. We were going East, we were going South, we went every direction except North. It doesn't take that much longer” Gary says that people are often unaware of the backroads, even around Victoria which offer up a completely different experience than driving on the main highways.
Impact of digital on driving
Karen Bresler
going in different directions doing different things all the time”.
Gary does plan his routes ahead of time but his routes are definitely outside of the highway lines wherever possible, and the three words “paved back roads” feature prominently.
“Everyone has to have an app on their phone and all this stuff. If you have ever driven following an app or Google Maps on a screen in the car, it shows you the highway you are on. They do not show you any side roads that are two or three miles on either side of where you are. I’ll drive along and notice a paved road going ’somewhere –oh where does that road go? This technology doesn't show you that. You have to go back to this old thing we call a paper map. I always have a printed copy of the map. Technology is good in the city but not if you want to have some fun and go somewhere. There are different ways to do anything. Mix it up a bit”
Research indicate that our brain becomes more developed when we take different routes to work. Gary agrees and says “I was lucky enough in my work career to basically freewheel as a supervisor in the logging industry and I was out in the back country, I had no set plan every day. 90 per cent of the time I was
Some of Gary’s travelling incudes his duties as PCA Zone Rep for Zone 11. Two years ago, PCA National approached Gary and asked if he wanted to be a Zone Rep. Basically a Zone Rep is the liaison between the Regions and PCA National. Gary helps with Zone 11 region’s events. He says he has no real authority and is not in charge of anybody. He is there for support of all the Presidents and members in the Zone 11 Regions. Gary has been lucky enough to visit Alaska, and had a ten-day visit to Hawaii, where there are two regions, meeting and attending events in all of them in all of them. He also attends two National PCA meetings a year, all at different “coolest Porsche places.” Gary is in his third year now.
What is needed then as we plan events? Gary states simply: “Think outside the box”. Gary gives the example of going to Salt Spring Island. Most people go from Crofton. He asks: “Why don’t you go the other way? We used to go there from Crofton, drive around, and have lunch and then we would take the
John and Nancy Sommerwerck with Gary Glover in Victoria when VIRPCA met up with PCA Treffeners in the Summer of 2024 for a few hours.
Photo:
other ferry and go to Sidney and have supper and drive home.
Gary has had his Cayman for thirteen years now. At the time of the interview Gary had done about 226,000 km on it.. “ I just keep driving it” Gary explains.
Above: Gary, wearing the 65th Anniversary shirt of Hawaii Region at VIRPCA AGM
Below: Gary on the move again, in his Cayman, “Allie”
Photos: Karen Bresler
Above: Gary and Janice visiting Hawaii Region: Photo Submitted
Above: Photo Submitted
Safety when travelling and Police Escorts...
Gary says on safety when travelling that he relies on the contact information at the back of the Panorama magazine issued by PCA “There are 100,000 members all across North America, there are forums on the website. Ask a question and you will have an answer. Breaking down doesn’t worry me. And if you are lucky enough to meet local Porsche people, sometimes they will take you for drives. So much local knowledge out there!” Gary still has lots of places to go and see. He says there is “lots of pavement left”.
On one trip, Gary tells a story of his group being pulled over “There were eight other couples. I was in the middle of the pack. There were members from the Interior, Island, Calgary, Washington and Oregon. We all had personal radios. The CHP watched us go by. The person at the back says on radio “he is following us” The lights go on and we all slow down and pull over. The Highway Patrol shook our hands. He was the treasurer of the local PCA Region. For
twenty minutes we were handing out badges and pins and chatting Porsches. I emailed him for about ten years thereafter.”
Then there was the time his group was escorted out of the USA. “That time it was Washington State Patrol who pulled us over. A motorcycle guy said we were “passing people” so we were told “to make sure you behave, we are going to follow you.” And that they did, handing us over each county and jurisdiction line right to the border”.
Gary’s Cayman, named “Allie” is a frequent flyer at Cars and Coffee and events all over the Island, and other areas. There are no excuses for not travelling with your Porsche in Gary’s eyes. Speaking of our island location, Gary says “to go anywhere starts with an hour and a half on a ferry. Other regions have great events. In the old days we used to phone people. Now we have computers No excuses”
Be sure to find out where in the world Gary is currently and say hi when you see him...
Photo submitted
An excerpt from Gary Glover’s book, recording a trip to Germany in 2003, and one particular driving trip
“...we arrived at the Porsche Travel Center at Porsche Strasse, Ludwigsburg. We enter...and meet our escort for the day, Stephan and his girlfriend, Sara. There, we have the sight of the week– four 996s in formation, fueled and warmed up, one for Stephan and the others labeled with each of our names, all ready to rock...All are 2003 models– IMAGINE- $450,000Cdn worth of Porsches for our pleasure and enjoyment for the next six and a half hours our own personal amusement tour! Documents with Porsche are signed and after a brief safety orientation is provided, Stephen tells us both rules– we are not allowed to pass him and he is not allowed to hold us back. Inside each car Porsche AG has left us a backpack, Porsche Literature and other treats. The first hold up is waiting for Ron to lower the roof on his Cabriolet. Gary inserts his serious driving CD to enhance the drive. As we all turn the keys, permagrins appear in the mirrors. Sunglasses are adjusted, sunroofs and targa tops are opened and the symphony of four highly tuned 996s echo between the buildings as we ease toward the exit. The games have started and we are gone– travelling through the city to warm the tires and the drivers before entering the Autobahn. In short time we find ourselves settling in the fast lane in formation– 240 km/hr appears to be a nice comfortable cruising speed. Shamir waits
patiently until we let him by, then he unleashes the turbo to promptly be within striking distance of Stephan’s tail lights. Gary and Ron not to be left in the turbo wake, are now also in hot pursuit, both watching the red needles climb higher. All is fine as Gary passes 260km/hr until a local semi-truck driver decides to pass and blocks off the fast lane with his speed od approximately 100 km/hr. We can now safely confirm that the ABS works. It will take more than this to extinguish our new passion– just as quickly, he moves over and within seconds we are again in formation
“...We drive from village to village, each one very neat and clean, the roads are narrow, winding and with low speed limits in the villages. The roads between the villages are very twisty and are traveled at high speed. We can hear the sweet 996 engines purring, except for Shamir’s Turbo screaming as we travel...Still lots more roads to enjoy, but also the scenery and the cars are exhilarating. The country roads are paced and in excellent condition, but put a 996 on one and they become very narrow, so narrow in places there is not much room for oncoming traffic. By 5:00 pm all of us are in need of refreshment. Stephen leads the way to a village Brauhaus dating back hundreds of years. We weave over many cobbled village roads to get there. Quite a sight for the locals as we arrive and park. Again, Porsche AG’s hospitality prevails as we leave the premises. Soon we are close to the outskirts of Stuttgart and encountering heavy traffic. Our portable radios we have all been given enable us to maintain our four car convey back to the Porsche Driving Tour site. As we pull into the gate and pass security, our dream ride is over. Hundreds of kilometres, a great lunch, excellent company, unbelievable roads and scenery, all enjoyed via a 996...We have large glowing smiles.”
Roving Reporter
This month’s Roving Reporter is Gordon Halkett, reporting from Melbourne, Australia where he attended the F1 and met with Adelaide PCA, and did some price comparison.
Photos: Gordon Halkett
Hey Mates!
In Melbourne for the season opener Formula 1 race. A 5.2 km circuit so lots of room for 50,000 of my new best friends. My 25 year VIRPCA shirt wasn’t enough to get me into the Porsche Hospitality Suite. It is far better than other F1 I’ve been to, largely because they have so much land around the facility. Likely 200 plus food trucks serving everything you can imagine. Washrooms and free fresh water stands everywhere.
F2 cars practised and 28 “full on race” Carrera Cup cars raced and a “Supercar” class they race here which is Shelby Mustangs and Camero’s race cars– right hand steer. It is referred to as V8 class Loud and they are not afraid to swap paint (and fenders) in the race. Neither were the Cup Drivers, with numerous cars damaged, and repaired on site for the next event.
I met up with members of Adelaide PCA, at an exotic car dealership. To my right is secretary Peter, and to my left members Carl & Lee. In typical PCA fashion, they were very welcoming. Most Australians I’ve met are very knowledgeable about Canada.
I handed out VIRPCA lapel pins.
Above: Holy check book Batman ! Look at the price $339,000!
Below: Price tag is $289,000
Rally Talk
By Klaus Kreye Photos by Eric Berard @epicbphotography
Thunderbird Rally 2025
Two wins for VIR PCA!
The 52nd running of the Thunderbird Rally took place as usual at the beginning of February. This is always a very popular event with a guaranteed "fun in the snow" element. This year there were 32 entries of which 28 made it to the start. The entries consisted of a good cross section of cars, including Gregory and Mattias in the 996 and a couple from Alberta in a Boxster. As usual we set off from Merritt with an overnight stop - this time in Penticton and back to Merritt the next day for the finish.
Regular followers of Linnea and my rally adventures will know that our rally 944 suffered a suspension failure in the summer and the parts took their time - eventually they arrived by Christmas. That left too little time for repair ..... and maybe I knew that, as I purchased a Celica in the fall as a stand-by car. Getting a vehicle ready for a first rally usually takes longer than expected and I spent most of the fall and early winter getting it ready.
Klaus Kreye driver with Linnea Uphoff as Navigator in a Toyota Celica at the Thunderbird Rally
Photo Eric Berard
We took the ferry on Friday in order to arrive in good time and complete "tech" on Friday evening and obtain the route book. This allowed a quick review of the proposed route and to enter the data into Rabbit Rally - the app that we use to keep on time. On Saturday we set out around 10:30 for the first regularity on the Douglas Lake Ranch Road. As part of the re-wiring of the car, to accommodate the VHF radio and the various USB charging ports, I had wired it to the accessory supply. This meant a short power interruption during start up. No problem for battery devices, such as smart phone or tablet, but our Rabbit box (first time using it) with the Wi-Fi and GPS kicked out. So we had to start without timing and Linnea worked frantically to get systems up again...unfortunately we incurred a total of 8 points on the first two checkpoints before we got on pace to score eight "zeros" out of a total 13 checkpoints in that regularity.
The transit section to Regularity 2 was quite long, in fact most transits were long this weekend resulting in only four Regularities on each of Saturday and Sunday.
We did a lot better on Regularity 2 with a single "high score" of three - the rest being zero's, one's and two's. Regularity 3 went "ok", but we incurred a "three" and a "four" which pushed our total up.
And just in case a reader is not sure what these numbers mean - these are the seconds that we were off (early or late) from the perfect time. Competitors obtain one demerit point for every second early or late.
Photo Eric Berard
By now it had gotten dark, so the covers came off the driving lights and we headed up the 97C. As we gained elevation the snow started coming down and we had to use low beam lights, otherwise we were "blinding" ourselves. This meant we had to slow down somewhat and arrived late for Regularity 4....most cars arrived late and the narrow road with deep snow meant we had to start in the order we got there, instead of our regular one minute intervals according to our car number. So we started off on a time declaration and took a while to get dialled in. It was slippery and tough going up the hill as there were at least 6 inches of fresh snowfall. Coming around one of the sharp corners we saw a certain German rear-engine car stuck in a snowbank and sailed past - lol! Gregory and Matthias were trying to shovel themselves out but were eventually towed out by another competitor in a Jeep. They almost ran out of time allowance.
A few kilometres on, the organizer's car had gotten stuck in the snow and there was a traffic jam. Once that was cleared we carried on through the snow. Some sectors had set a speed of about 70 km/h, which I could not maintain in the deep snow. That meant that my navigatrix was suddenly very busy monitoring progress and placing time declarations. By the end of this regularity we had racked up a total of around 800 seconds delay. We later learned that only 6 cars (including us) had made it through before the organizer's car got stuck again and he decided to cancel the regularity and tell the cars behind him to turn around and head back to the highway. Two of the six, however, did not make it far past the blockage before ending up in a snowbank themselves.
We got in to the hotel in Penticton around 8pm and headed straight for dinner. Results came out later and we had placed first in Historic Class with a lead of just under 30 points (seconds). So our strategy for day 2 would be to score 30 points or less - that would guarantee us to remain in the lead. Any points scored by the second placed team would be a buffer.
Gregory Campbell and Matthias Kenton in a Porsche 996
Photo Eric Berard
Day two dawned sunny and Regularity 5 from Fairview was one of those picture book perfect scenic roads that always reminds me why we like rallying: You get to see areas of BC that are scenically splendid and that you would normally not see. The fact that we are competing in a rally is just a "little extra" fun ........
We did ok on Reg 5, but Reg 6 was really the good one - we scored "zeros" and "ones" throughout, nothing higher. Reg 7 had some deep snow, some cars went off, we got behind in the snow and Linnea was kept busy with time delays - we need to perfect our technique here as we racked up some higher scores.
The last Reg was number 8 and we did fairly well on that, getting us the lowest regularity score for the event at 4 points. This allowed us to maintain our position and get first in Historic Class.
Two Wheel Drive Results:
Gregory Campbell and Matthias Kenton 33 Points;
Jason Luk and Kevin Ting
58 Points
Klaus and Linnea 105 Points
Historic Results:
Klaus and Linnea 105 Points
Jordan and Kyle 151 Points
Dereck and Donald 862 Points
Overall Results and shout out to Gregory and Matthias for coming in third in the 996:
Paul and Yulia 9 Points
John and Catherine 12 Points
Gregory and Matthias 33 Points
Photo Eric Berard
The rally scene is certainly attracting more interest and we are looking forward to a full program of events for the year:
2-4 May RAVI Coast to Coast Rally
24 May RAVI Tour de North Rally
22 June VIR PCA Spring Rally
12-13 July WCRA Heart of Darkness
9 August RAVI Rally 'round the Capital
20 September RAVI Midnight Rally
28 September VIR PCA Fall Rally
1 November RAVI Falling Leaves Rally
22-23 November WCRA Totem Rally
Hope to see you out there - we are looking for competitors, marshals, scorers (time keeping) and any other way you might want to become involved...just drop me a line.
Klaus Kreye Rally Chair rally@virpca.org
Photo Eric Berard
All You Ever Wanted to Know about Rallying
But Were Afraid to Ask Social
Please join the VIRPCA Rally Team for a Pre-Rally Season Social. Come and see what rallying is all about, and enjoy a social with VIRPCA members at the same time.
Chat, mingle and go on a tour of Klaus’s garage, including some nice rare motorcycles. Enjoy a presentation of the in's and out's of rallying with lots of opportunity for Q+A. Try out a short fun- no pressure twenty minute rally in the suburbs to get a feel for how it works. You can take an experienced navigator or driver with you if you wish.
Enjoy a bratwurst or two, with delicious sides, and dessert too.
When: Saturday April 12, 2025 at 2 pm
Where: Klaus' home in Metchosin (detailed instructions will be mailed to participants)
Fee: $16.95 per person including GST
How: Register on MSR http://msreg.com/Pre-Season-Rally
Questions? email Klaus Kreye at rally@virpca.org
Photo submitted: Gregory Campbell
TECH Talk
By Paul Rossmo
‘FASTER’ I want to go faster
Glossy magazine pages entice us to buy products promising instant performance gains by modifying our cars. Thought should be given to determining if these are a positive addition moving you toward your goal or just ‘shiny things’. ‘Named Products’ come with bragging rights and I often hear owners that know the name of the product but little about them our how they affect overall performance when integrated. Balance is a word you’ll hear a lot about in Motorsports, and one of the most difficult things to achieve.
5 tips for improving performance for Track Days, Autocross and Rallies.
#1 Driving Lessons
I remember my first ever lap around a racetrack. Six of us ‘would be racers’, were being chauffeured around Mosport by our instructor Bob Long driving a Ford Econoline van, at a terrifying pace. This illustrated to me that any vehicle can go fast when well driven. He was showing us the correct lines while giving a master class in balance
Changes you make to a car to increase performance are lost the minute you sell it.
Ifyouinvestinimprovingyourskills,youarerewarded everytimeyoudriveanyvehicle.
There are many excellent driving schools focused on your area of interest.
#2 Fitting the car – the driver’s seat, belts and pedals
When driving fast we expend a great deal of energy just trying to stay in place. Cornering forces push us into the door panel, heavy braking tries to submarine us under the steering wheel, and acceleration is about the only ally we have in trying to remain in our seat. When driving aggressively, to be able to accurately feel the cars motion, you must be firmly held in place. A good racing seat will be comfortable while still transmitting road feel and providing sufficient lateral support. Racing belts keep your body fixed in position allowing you to focus on steering and pedal pressures. A good dead pedal enhances driver confidence.
Mostcarscanbeequippedinawaywheretheracingseatandbeltscanbe easilyswappedwithyourregularseatfordaytodaydriving.
#3 Tires – Your connection to the road
Your car is held to the road by the amount of tire rubber contacting the pavement, the ‘Contact Patch’. These contact patches are generally the size of a human hand. The four of them (apologies if you are driving a 6-wheel tyrell) generate all of your grip. Tires also have distinct personalities with some being very easy to drive at the limit and others treacherous to all but professionals. Picking the best tire for your application will involve a lot of research and recommendations. Be sure to ask users not just sellers for reviews. Thisshouldbethefirstplacetospendmoneyandthelastplacetoscrimp.
The trend of wider and lower profile tires has been a mixed blessing. Cars are engineered for specific tire characteristics and changes can degrade as well as enhance performance. Too large a tire may look good but may actually degrade the handling and braking again it’s about balance
Tire pressures are extremely important. Buy an accurate gauge and learn how to use it to optimize your tires for your driving application.
#4 Weight – Where less is truly more
The obesity crisis has affected our loved ones. My first 911 weighed just over 1,000 kilograms, a current 911 weighs 1,650 kilograms. The general rule of thumb is every 10 pounds (4.5 kilograms), equals 1 horsepower.
Thereisamoreimportantadvantagetosavingweight;whereashorsepowerbenefitsonlyacceleration,saving weightalsoimprovesbrakingandhandling.
One of my favorite Porsche cars ever built was the Porsche 909 Bergspyder, during its development, Ferdinand Piech was said to carry a magnet in his pocket and if it stuck to anything on the car, the engineers were told to find a lighter material. The final ‘wet weight’ of the entire car was 385 kilograms. https:// prhistorics.com/porsche-909-bergspyder-mountain-spyder/. At track days and autocrosses, emptying the car (spare tires, tools, mats etc.) and running a light fuel load can create a noticeable improvement. Pushing away from the buffet can also add a few horsepower lol.
#5 Money – Where more is truly more!
Porsche has always produced a range of cars to suit most every owners performance expectations, from rapid road cars to competitive race cars. Their precise engineering always meant any increase in one area of performance was balanced by changes throughout.
Ifyouwantto‘ GoFaster’,Porscheusuallyhasaweapontogetthejobdone.
Larissa Lawrence, Membership Chair
As we close out Q1, VIRPCA celebrates a total of 667 members 411 Primary Members and 256 Affiliate Members. Thank you to all who renewed, and a warm welcome to those who joined our Porsche community this quarter!
Welcome to Our New Members!
Thomas Pink – 2012 911 Targa 4S (Victoria)
Joan Pink – Co-Member (Victoria)
Cindy Hogg – 2025 Panamera 4S E-Hybrid (North Saanich)
Dale Hogg – Co-Member (North Saanich)
Jozef Figel – 2009 Cayenne (Nanaimo)
Attila Sipos – 1999 911 Carrera 4 (Nanaimo)
Maxine Moinier – 2014 Cayenne S (Errington)
Logan Vachon – 1978 911 SC (Port Alberni)
Barbara Fleury – Co-Member (Nanoose Bay)
Mike Chow – 2022 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 (Saanich)
Rand Ritchie – 2022 718 Cayman GT4 (North Saanich )
Celebrating Member Anniversaries
We proudly recognize the following members celebrating milestone anniversaries this spring:
First Year Anniversaries
April
Anthony Bergelt – Comox – 2002 911 Turbo
Josee Charbonneau – Victoria
Trace Hart – Qualicum Beach – 2019 911 Carrera T
Thor Frohn-Nielsen – Parksville – 2005 911 Carrera S
Henry Proske – North Saanich – 1988 928 S4
Joanie Proske – North Saanich
Faaris Kathrada – Victoria – 2018 Macan S
Mojtaba Shahab – Victoria May
Michael Moisson – Mill Bay – 2002 911 Targa
Nyles Moisson – Mill Bay
David Giles – Port Alberni
Ian Aaron – Victoria – 2024 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 June
Marc Georg – Victoria – 2008 911 Carrera S
Rob Parker – Victoria – 2000 911 Carrera
Robert Wilson – Victoria – 2003 911 Carrera Cabriolet
Donelda Wilson – Victoria
Ten Year Anniversaries
April
May
June
John Wilson – Victoria – 2022 Taycan Turbo S
Lee Odgers – Nanaimo – 2004 911 Carrera 4S
Kim Odgers – Nanaimo
Lily Brennan – Courtenay
Peter A. Brennan – Courtenay – 2002 Boxster
Krystyna Holan – Victoria
Michael Holan – Victoria – 2003 Boxster
Ken Norie – North Saanich – 2014 911 Carrera S
Karen Martin – Campbell River
Robert Martin – Campbell River – 2003 Boxster
Chris Pease – Victoria – 2008 Boxster S
Fifteen Year Anniveraries5-Year Anniversaries
April
Rick Collopy – Nanaimo – 2006 911 Carrera 4S
Gayle Collopy – Nanaimo
William Johnson – Victoria – 2010 911 GT3
Donna Johnson – Victoria
June
Peter Lindsay – Victoria – 2002 911 Carrera
Joy Lindsay – Victoria
Charles Velikovsky – Victoria – 1987 911 Carrera
Vanessa Velikovsky – Victoria
Gordon Robertson – Courtenay – 2010 911 GT3
Renee Robertson – Edmonton
Steve Seixeiro – Nanaimo – 1999 Boxster
April Seixeiro – Nanaimo
Twenty Five Year Anniversaries
April
May
AJ Papp – Victoria – 2008 911 Turbo
Laurel Klus – Campbell River
Allan Klus – Campbell River – 1986 911 Turbo
Thirty Five Year Anniveraries5-Year Anniversaries
June
Wayne Ayers – Nanaimo – 2014 Panamera
Hazel Ayers – Nanaimo
45-Year Anniversaries
Forty Five Year Anniversaries
May
Irwin Axness – Nanaimo – 1980 911 SC
Drive.Connect.Volunteer
Spring brings not just warmer roads but a chance to gather as a club, share stories, and create new memories. Upcoming events are your excuse to explore new places and strengthen connections — with both members and machines. Check the website for the latest information.
The 'Spring into Gear' Driving Challenge
As the weather warms and the roads call, we invite you to take part in the 'Spring into Gear' Driving Challenge.
Head out on your favorite local route or explore somewhere new and share a photo of your Porsche in action. Include the location and, if you'd like, a few words about what made the drive special to you.
Submissions may be featured in a future issue of PORSCHER. Send yours to me at membership@virpca.org or to the editor at editor@virpca.org
Fast Facts
In 1951, Porsche entered its very first race at Le Mans with the lightweight 356 SL. Not only did the car finish the grueling 24-hour endurance race it won its class.
This early triumph helped solidify Porsche’s reputation for performance and reliability on the global stage, and laid the groundwork for the motorsport legacy we continue to celebrate today.
Photo: Dean Gaschermann
John P. Sommerwerck
PCA Zone 6 Rep
March came in like a lion. The local ski areas received over three Feet of snow in the last two weeks. I’m happy that we have the snowpack build up and longer ski season, but that means it will be the end of April before I can get my Spyder on the road. Hopefully you will be able to get your Porsches out sooner.
This past weekend I held the 2025 Zone 6 Region Presidents meeting in Boise, ID. It was great to have region leaders from all eleven Zone 6 regions actively participating. Richard Strahota, PCA National Treasurer, joined us to give an update on the status of PCA and focus for 2025. Key for PCA in 2025 is the celebration of our 70th anniversary. Have you seen the YouTube video that came out last week. Celebrating PCA's 70th Anniversary: It's not just the cars, it's the peopleYouTube
PCA National has several events of note; Porsche Parade 2025 is scheduled for July 6-12 in Oklahoma City and Porsche Parade 2026 is scheduled for June 14-20 in Lake Placid, NY. Parade 2025 Registration is now open. As usual, Parade registration will be a two-part endeavor. First one registers as an entrant and reserves their hotel room. In the second phase events and meals are signed up for. 2025 Treffen at Sea sets sail Sunday, August 30th from New York, NY, returning on Sunday, September 6th. Treffen at Sea registration is now open! Fall 2025 Treffen will be held at the Four Seasons Resort in Jackson Hole, WY. Check it out at: Treffen Jackson Hole (Fall 2025) | Treffen North America . Registration opens on June 11th
Nancy and I are in the midst of planning our Zone 6 region visits, so far we have plans to
visit seven and are looking for ideas for the other four visits. Zone 6 signature region events can be found PCA Zone 6 - The Pacific NW Regions. Zone 6 abounds in great roads to drive and great automotive venues.
Parting shot. ‘Garage Queen’ Shot at the PECATL garage.
Stay healthy and we will see you in the Zone!
North Island
Director: Marc P. Klijnsmit
Good day members!
It feels like spring is here! So nice to see people are digging out their Porsches and are getting ready to have them out on the road again.
The board has been working hard to get the club calendar finished up with events and we’ve had some really awesome in person board meetings. Some of you have probably attended a lunch or a dinner with club members as well! I see great pictures on our Facebook page! Probably just before publishing this issue of Porscher we will have Mittwoch Essen at Little Bavaria in Port Alberni.
April will have the season openers cars and coffee dates! They are Saturday April 12th for North Island, and Sunday April 13th for Mid and South Island. Exciting times! Lets hope the weather will be nice and all of you will attend one of those days. I look forward meeting old and new members of the club! General Manager Adam Ma from Porsche Center Victoria is donating $500 towards coffee and donuts! Very generous! Thank you Adam Ma!
May 9th Canada West Region will visit the island for their club drive to Tofino and Ucluelet. On their way up they will visit Café 356 for a meet with VIR members. It’s all super casual, but I think it would be super nice to welcome CWR members to the island and meet new people. 31 members will bring 16 Porsches that day, so lets join them for a coffee and welcome them. For people who are not able to come on Friday, some of the CWR members already committed to visit 356 on the way back to the mainland.
On May 14, we will have another Mittwoch Essen. This time in Qualicum Beach at Black Bird Schnitzel Haus. Please follow us on Facebook and check the calendar on our website at virpca.org for more details.
Some of you know that I have been working on a window with all the region window decals. That is coming along very nicely. Check out this picture and if you have one of the missing decals (probably about 90 haha) let me know!
For now, have a great week! If there is anything you need, or if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call or email me. Enjoy your car and make sure to drive it!!
Marc P. Klijnsmit
northisland@virpca.org
Mid Island
Director: Didier Moinier
The following are the drives / visits that we are preparing:
Drives to Port Alberni planned for June (date tba) with another one planned for Saturday October 4th
The idea is that the three areas, North, Mid and South Island, organize a drive with destination: the train station in Port Alberni to meet at 11:00 am, then all Porsche drivers and guests would embark on a train car for a ride on the steam train.
The other drive would be as above where the three areas organize a drive to Rotor Maxx Support in Parksville.
Rotor Maxx Support is a Canadian owned company specializing in repairs and overhauls of helicopter engines, gearboxes and many other components. RotorMaxx serve customers from all over the world.
South Island
Director: Ray Gumbel
We kicked off 2025 with several South Island Fast.Food events. In early March, culinary students at Camosun College hosted VIR members for a delightful dinner. On April 3rd, Porsche enthusiasts will gather at the Fireside Grill. If you haven’t attended a Fast.Food event yet, it’s a fantastic opportunity to sample offerings from great restaurants and enjoy the company of fellow Porsche members.
With spring just around the corner, plans for the 2025 driving season are underway. In addition to the Fast.Food events held on the first Thursday of each month, we have some exciting early morning drives planned to various breakfast locations. Throughout the year, everyone is welcome to join us for coffee & cars in the parking lot near Whole Foods at Uptown Mall every Sunday morning, rain or shine.
Stay tuned for more details, and check the VIR-PCA event calendar for event reminders.
Ray Gumbel
Cars and Coffee is held every Sunday morning at Whole Foods, Uptown Mall. The conversation is always lively and covers many different topics. Come and see for yourself and make new connections. Delicious coffee and baked goods within smelling distance...
Photos Wyman Lee
Events Chair
Tim Evans
The 2025 driving season has officially begun, at least that is how I see once spring has arrived on the island. Our event calendar is coming together with a lot of events now confirmed and a number still in the planning stages. Our first driving event is scheduled for April 26th and will kick off the season. You can find more info on the website calendar and I encourage you to keep checking the website for events in your area.
I am pleased to see that we have events that cover all of the island and even some from Canada West Region on the lower mainland and we should hear soon about events from BC Interior Region that we can participate in. Nothing like a drive to the interior where they have so many great secondary highways and roads to experience. Of course, we also include events from our Zone 6 and PCA.
Don’t be shy about suggesting events. Even if you have no experience or time to organize them yourself, we can always help out with that. Send any suggestions to myself at events@virpca.org
See you on the road.
Left: Board meeting with members present- March 2025- Event planning for 2025 in full swing
Right: Genoa Bay Drive 2024
Photo: Karen Bresler
Photo: Karen Bresler
In-Person Board meetings
The Executive is meeting in person currently and invites all members to attend. The Executive and Members enjoy a social hour over a meal and then get down to business running VIRPCA. The meetings are a great opportunity for the Executive to hear from members and for members to see what goes into running this region. The social connection before the meeting has been energizing. Our Secretary Kevin Root, keeps the minutes and also runs the zoom meeting for those who can’t meet in person.
We will need volunteers to assist in upcoming events and we are also looking for a Volunteer Co-Ordinator. Currently anyone interested in volunteering, or being the Volunteer Co-Ordinator – please email editor@virpca.org
March 2025 Board meeting at Quattro Bambini, Cobble Hill
April 2025 Café 356
Photos: Karen Bresler
Bottom Right: Kevin Root manages the technology for Zoom Participants while also taking the minutes.
911 ways to use your porsche
Wayne Ayers submitted this photo of his 911RS towing his Enterprise dinghy. The delightful history of the car follows on the next page.
IfyouwouldliketoshareaphotoofyourPorschebeingusefulordoinguniqueactivities,pleaseemailthe Editorwithyourphoto/sandabriefdescriptiontoeditor@virpca.org
As a young man in New Zealand in the 60's living above McLaren's Garage I inevitably pursued an automotive apprenticeship. Fortunately my training was at an European car dealership as I had a great interest in German cars, their design, build and performance.
I moved to Canada in 1971 and found work at an automotive service shop in Vancouver that specialized in German cars and I became enamoured of Porsche and its engineering. In 1974 I purchased a 14' Enterprise sailboat from a friend on Gabriola Island and my buddy would tow it to the boat ramp with his truck. Then on a bank foreclosure a 911 race car became available so I acquired it and immediately started on its conversion to a street legal car. I built a custom trailer hitch direct to the engine mounting at the engine block so that I could tow my boat down to the water but I didn't need to use it for very long as I became involved in founding the Jericho Sailing Club and there I was able to store the boat. The street converted race car was my daily driver for ski trips to Whistler and Mt. Baker with snow tires at the rear.
The car fresh from Germany was damaged in shipping and was not deemed suitable for repair and sale. The Midwest dealer decided to convert it to an SCCA race car and it was campaigned for two seasons. Bert Laakmann and Charly Godecke (synonymous with the brand Porsche at Westwood), purchased the car and ran it at Westwood in the early 70's. They transported it to Kelowna to compete at the Knox Mountain Hill Climb. At the conclusion of this event the car was sold. The new owner began the transformation to a road legal car with signals and lights. The project was forestalled and I was able to purchase it and continue the street conversion. I installed a passenger seat, removed the roll cage and rear window blow out straps, replaced the tires, installed carpeting and a gas heater, as there were no heater boxes on the race headers, added a Corvair turbo muffler for each bank and a foam backed headliner for sound insulation.
Wayne Ayers
Photo of Paul Rossmo and Karl Schon on the cover of Timberline, Newsletter of Canada West Region, November 1987 Paul says: “We both placed well in the race at Westwood, Vintage Racing our 356’s. Karl was so happy, he jumped into my arms.”
“ShellPorsche962.Iclearlyrememberseeingallthe962satRennsportwithJohn(Clark)andElise.Weweretracksidelessthan30'fromthemscreamingby.Youcouldfeeltheroarthroughyouentirebody.Iwasgiddy,Johnwas overjoyedandEliseyells,"Ithinkthat'senoughdaddy!"Idecideditwasabitmuchforatwoyearoldevenwithear plugsandeardefenders!Fantasticmemories.IlikedthepaintschemeonthiscareventhoughIrefertoanything redandyellowasKetchupandMustard.Itsnotmyfavoritecombobutthelogoslookgoodanditworks.Ilaidout mostofthispaintingonenightbetweenMidnightand3amafterworkingonanotherpaintingfortheprevious3 hours.Idon'trememberdoingitsoyoucanimaginemysurpriseinthemorning.Therefinementshappenedgraduallyoverthenextyear.Thispaintingsoldtoacollectorin2022onPCarmarket”
Malcolm Fletcher
Gallery Art by Malcolm Fletcher
Cars and Coffee gatherings are held weekly on Sunday morning at south island and mid-Island locations, and twice monthly on Saturday or Sunday morning at north Island locations. Check the website for times and locations.
Photo by Wyman Lee
Uli Jaeckel and Mantoine Olivier, each well known for their commitment to perfecting driving skills, said that to satisfy their passion for driving and “to overcome the extended nondriving period of the Canadian Winter months” they signed up for a Porsche Canada Ice Experience. The training was “Ice Force" and enabled us to utilize three different Porsche Models over three driving days. The base car was a 992.1 Carrera 4S, followed by a 992.1 Turbo S. Both models are four wheel drive equipped with
The highlight was to drive the 992.1 GT3 RS equipped with 1.5 mm studs on ice and snow. What a difference in handling between the models. The GT3 RS is definitely more at home on the track than a slippery, snowy road. In the handling of a slalom course, every participant was unable to keep the RS going in the intended direction. The all wheel drive Porsches are the more sure footed winter drivers.”
Uli and MANTOINE
Photo submitted: Above and Below: Photo Credit Porsche Experience
Fast Foods
On March 6, 2025, 19 VIR members enjoyed a four-course meal prepared and served by students of Camosun College’s Culinary Arts School. The dinner was held at the ClassRoom Restaurant on the Interurban campus of the college. The dishes were innovative, attractive and delicious. We were also treated to two “ amuse-bouchées” as surprise additions to the menu. Members enjoyed the evening and were very appreciative of the students’ efforts.
Garth Webber Atkins
Photos: Garth Webber Atkins
week
Wyman Lee captures each
the variety at C& C, Victoria
Photos; Wyman Lee
Photo: Wyman Lee
N. Island Courteney-Comox
Photo: Franz-Albert Bergund
Mid-Island Café 356, French Creek
Photo: Karen Bresler
Photo: Karen Bresler
Meet new member Joe Figel and his Cayenne
Photos- Karen Bresler
Ongoing Cars & CoffeeTimes
North Island Cars and Coffee is every second Saturday in Campbell River at the Quinsam Crossing Starbucks- 10am to 12.Cars and Coffee is also every 4th Sunday at Bean Around the World on Cliff Avenue in Courtenay. 10am to 12.
Mid Island Sundays 9:00 am, Café 356, 1025 Lee Road, Parksville
South Island Sundays 9am, Whole Foods Market, 3587 Blanshard Street, Victoria
A few upcoming events April July 2025: Save The Date
Please check the website as events are updated all the time. Some notable upcoming events are featured here so you can “Save the Date” We look forward to the cars, people and lively discussions!
April 12, 2025 at 14h00 All You Ever Wanted to Know About Rallying– But Were Afraid to Ask Social http:// msreg.com/Pre-Season-Rally
April 12 and 13
Seasoner openers Cars and Free Coffee
April 13 Early Riser Drive
April 26
May 9
Cowichan Valley Drive
Meet Canada West Region at Café 356
May 28 Rolex event at Café 356
June 2-6 Selkirk Loop Tour
June TBD Port Alberni Train Ride
June 18-20 Island Adventure
June 22 Spring Rally
July 9 Gimmick Rally
July 27 The Perfectly Presidential Porsche Potluck Picnic
Photo: Eric Maitland
Porsche pets
Didier Moinier send in this photo of his grandson Leon and a puppy litter from a few years ago. He explains:
“This picture came from a video, where I stand on the side of my 993 and complain to my trusted mechanic (my grandson Leon) of noise coming from the front. So he opens the front trunk and here are nine German Shorthaired puppies!”
IfyouhaveaPorschePetandwouldliketohaveyourpetfeaturedhere,please emailtheEditornewsletter@virpca.org ,withthephotoandabriefdescriptionof howyourpetenjoysthePorscheexperience.
Naturally Pacific Resort
Vancouver Island Motor Circuit
Brian Danyliw– Sothebys International Realty
Peanut Butter Kisses and Treats
Porsche Victoria Good Fellows Cigar Shop
Dancia Motors Café 356
Unique Accommodations Cleo Connects
PR Historics Appraisals Villa Eyrie
Please show your support for these businesses by giving them the opportunity to serve you. Also mention that you saw their advert in Porscher so they know their money is well spent. The display of adverts does not constitute an endorsement of the company by VIR or PCA.
Submissions to Porscher Members are invited and encouraged to submit articles and photos that would be of interest to the Club. Photos in JPG or PNG formats. Articles should not exceed 750 words. Longer articles will be considered on a case by case basis. If submitting photos, please send a caption describing the photo or the people depicted and please indicate the name of the photographer. Please send submissions via email to the Editor at: editor@virpca.org
Magazine Deadline The deadline for the next issue is the 15th of the month prior to the issue date. Porscher is issued April, July. October, and January.
Photo Credits: Ken McClean; Eric Berard, Dean Gaschermann; Wyman Lee, Karen Bresler, Paul Rossmo, Porsche Experience. Others are credited in articles. If we have omitted anyone, our apologies. Please advise us and we shall credit you next issue.
Advertising Rates (per issue)
$250 Outside back page
$230 Inside front cover
$200 Inside back cover
$180 Full page
$ 100 Half page
$ 60 Quarter page
$ 30 Business card
Classified Ads: No Charge
Please contact the Editor for more information at editor@virpca.org
Porscher is the official publication of the Vancouver Island Region Porsche Club of America and is published quarterly.
EDITORIAL: Statements appearing in PORSCHER are those of the author and not necessarily those of the Porsche Club of America, the Vancouver Island Region, its Executives or the Editor. All articles and photographs are copyright the author or contributor (unless otherwise noted). Permission for reprints or reproduction of the contents must be granted by the Editor and the author or contributor.
Copyright © 2017-2025 by Porsche Club of America, Vancouver Island Region. All rights reserved.
