How did you get into Porsche? 

I have always been a fan of Porsche because of their focus on driving experience (and not best lap times, or horsepower or torque, or flashiness...). I finally got into my own during the beginning of 2021. Partially due to COVID, I realized that the backseats in my sedan were not being used at all! So, I decided to go for a fun car with no back seats, to "optimize" the driving experience... bonus points for convertible to maximize fresh air :) So, there was only one reasonable choice, because there is no substitute... Porsche Boxster! 

Why do you drive? What motivates you? Do you have any goals? 

I drive because I enjoy the sensory experience! I truly love everything that you feel when you drive a Porsche, like upshifts and downshifts, accelerations and decelerations, the camber of the road when you're motoring along, and even the 2nd to 1st gear clunky downshift (PDK) adds to the charm. Feeling the car idle when you're at a stop light and noting the differences in engine sounds depending on what you're doing add to the experience. These days we are in our cars for so many hours out of our lives, I made the choice that these hours should be as fun and enjoyable as possible, and couldn't be happier!

I am a nerd by nature and by training, so naturally I always thinking about this like "how can I carry a few more MPHs through this corner?" The minute adjustments and improvements, whether it is on the street or on the track, motivate me to keep improving driving skills. My overall goal is to become a quicker driver on track, and a smoother driver over all! 

What is your dream Porsche and why? 

My dream Porsche changes multiple times every single day depending on the mood and what photos I have seen on social media that day, likely a common conundrum amongst all Porsche enthusiasts! For now, my dream Porsche is one with a wing, optimized for track performance, and not necessarily street comfort. GT-something, like 991.2+ GT3, or 718 GT4. 

Do you have a favorite driver? 

My favorite driver is Lando Norris, for McLaren Formula 1. Unfortunately they have not had dominant success... yet ;) I like him due to his temperate and composed attitude! 

Are you currently working on a car project? 

Unfortunately I do not have a car project. I hope this will change it the not-to-distant future, as I get more garage space! 

Is there a local auto shop you recommend? 

I have taken my Porsches to Response Motors in Mountain View for normal services, and to BR Racing in Los Gatos for more track and performance service. Both shops provide excellent service, and the technicians love chatting to you about whatever you are interested in. 

What has been your favorite drive so far? 

My favorite driving roads in the Bay Area are the ones north of the Golden Gate Bridge on Highway 1. They're extremely beautiful, road quality is excellent, and not so much car traffic!

My favorite drive overall though is PCA GGR's annual trip to Mammoth, California. Beautiful views comined with tasty food and awesome company can't be beat. 

Do you have any tips for those looking to get into driving and/car event? 

As soon as the announcement email is sent, create a calendar event and/or alarm for a few minutes before the registration time and date. Have your webpage logged in, and ready, at least a few minutes before registration opens! Due to overwhelming enthusiasm in the PCA GGR region for Porsche events, they are often "sold out" within the first few minutes. Set an alarm so you don't miss the opportunity :)

Porsche enthusiasts love the entire community and experience rather than only liking extremely expensive or rare cars. So, it doesn't matter which one you have - everyone will love it, and love meeting you! 

What would you like to see the GGR club do?

I would like to see GGR continue doing 1x Cars and Coffee per month, in addition to 1x Social Drive per month! These events are excellent, casual, fun ways to socialize with other enthusiasts! 

Would you be willing to participate in a future Porsche events? 

This is a rhetorical trick question. Obviously, YES! Looking forward to remaining events in 2023, like Werks and Rennsport Reunion. Still hoping for Mammoth to be reschuled to October, fingers crossed! 

How many Porsches do you own? 

One. But in my mind, many :D 

Member of a car club other than GGR? 

Not currently, but love going to several Car Garages around the bay, like AutoVino and The Spot SF. I also enjoy hanging out with some fellow car enthusiasts from work. 

Can people follow you on Instagram or facebook? 

Absolutely. Follow @nickdrives_ to tag along the adventure! 

Can people reach out to you for a driving tips if they are in your area? 

Yes, please do! I have spent lots of time driving the mountain roads near Alice's and Santa Cruz Mountains (Highways 9, 35, 84; Pescadero Creek), as well as north of Golden Gate Bridge, mainly Highway 1! 

Is there something your GGR members who may be reading this may not know about you? (car related) 

My car previous to Porsches was a 2015 Audi S3, with a Stage 2 tune and some bolt-on modifications. Very different experience than Porsche, but fun in different ways :) 

For the Porsche enthusiast, can you share any tips from any or all of your Porsche? 

Keep up with your regular maintenance! Treat your cars right and they will treat you right! Unofficial tip: use sport mode at least one time a week. Your vehicle needs to stretch its legs! 

Any Porsche stories you want to share? 

It has happened several times that while driving along I give another Porsche driver the peace sign, and we connect later on Instagram! So, lesson of the story: share the love! You never know who you will meet!