Page 60 - KCRPCA JulyAug 2021

The group headed downstairs trackside, and the vehicles were all lined up neatly. Drivers were paired off with their uniformed instructors and introduced to their first of 3 vehicle selections. Some started in mid-engine 718s and others started in the 992 911, (Carrera 4S no less) while others started in the Taycan Turbo S. Best of all, the rain had stopped, and track conditions were dry.
For the next several hours, each driver got the chance to experience and explore the various circuits in their chosen vehicles
did it again, and again and again. It was brilliant. I am certain that everyone had their own favorite moment, but for me, following Jeff Hallam around the outer high-speed course, lap after lap in the new 992 Carrera 4S was unforgettable. Huge grins filled up the rear-view mirrors.
It was especially great to see the facial expressions, big laughs and excited exchanges between drivers and instructors that took place during car changes and water breaks. Hats off to all the instructors who were charged with managing traffic control, the various skill levels, in different vehicles through the various circuits.
“It’s not just about the cars, it’s about the people”.
After the track driving sessions concluded, the groups broke into rotations for the Driving Simulators. It was a close lap time competition between Fred and T, with first timer Hallam in the mix. As we were being monitored, we kept the expletives down and it was later discovered that Fred (surprise)
in fact beat the fastest time set
by the Porsche pro driver. Just
as impressive was Jeff Hallam’s second place time in his first simulation outing.
After lunch and some shopping in the Porsche retail store, the group was escorted on a VIP Tour with Mark Harston, who is the Porsche North
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Der Sportwagen
For the next several hours, each driver got the chance to experience and explore the various circuits in their chosen vehicles, while being skillfully led by their group instructor
and patiently monitored using two-way radios. Being able to explore the true capability of these vehicles under controlled conditions is where the real magic happens. I witnessed many smiles and am certain that more than
a few creative expletives were voiced while in the cockpit alone.
That included me, as I launched the new Taycan Turbo S using launch control for the first time. The acceleration is simply mind-bending. And we