Mike,

On the PCA web site, click on Regional Directory, then Zone 1. Go to the Schattenbaum Region, and check on Drivers Ed. This is a relatively SMALL region that runs several DE's, thus there are usually few cars on the track at a time, and also, their events are easier to get into (many large regions close out the first day of registration). Schattenbaum runs a pretty good DE, and the one in June at Watkins Glen is great. They do have several good instructors (request Kevin, if you can, he's at least been in a 928 before!!). This will absolutely be the greatest day you've ever had in a car - fully clothed at least!!

Gary Knox
West Chester, PA

 

Gary,

Thanks for the info. I was looking at the one in Watkins Glen, but June is the SITM and I've got other obligations that will make it tough.

I was hoping for an instructor that knows 928s because of some things I read in the main DE/racing thread. One guy said his instructor kept telling him to brake, brake sooner, for GOD SAKE BRAKE!

Turns out the guy wasn't familiar with Porsche brakes at all and was used to his own line, which required a MUCH different braking technique. This 'student' switched instructors to one who knew his type of car (don't know if it was a 928) and had a much more enjoyable experience.

I really appreciate all of this info from everyone. I just don't like feeling like a fool and I REALLY don't want to do something that will put someone else's car or life in danger just because I didn't know any better.

Can't wait to get out there, I know I'll be hooked. I can't get enough in-car video.

 

Mike POC and PCA both start new students in the SLOW run groups usually ALL students with instructors in the cars so it is very, very safe. Basically you must learn to walk before you learn to run ! The key is being safe , learning the line ,awarness of the cars arond you, learning how to stay on the LINE ! The going FAST part comes later although you will swear that you are driving your car as fast as is humanly possible ! until that 17 year old in the 914 is all over your bumper

 

You've been given some good info, more is located in the DE/Race forum here as well. I'll add that for the first several DEs, I believe that what your instructor drives has little bearing on the instruction. How to brake, turn in, SMOOTH!, etc is what you should learn in the beginning. Rotational characteristics, trail braking.....and things involving the outer limits are helpful from someone from the same type of car. As far as the above post about "God SAKE Brake". The most important thing for you to do is listen and do whatever the instructor says while your in the car. When I instruct (going on 9 years) and I say brake...I have a reason. You'll get different info from every instructor, learn it, and then take with you the bits from every instructor you find helpful. Read one of the very helpful books available to learn the lingo, and watch a video of the track you are going to in order to know when to turn right or left. Have fun!

 

What are those helpful books?

 

I have suggested these in the past.
Going Faster! Mastering the Art of Race Driving by Carl Lopez
Speed Secrets By Ross Bently
Driving in Competition by Alan Johnson
Porsche High-Performance Driving Handbook by Vic Elford
Bob Bondurant on High Performance Driving by Bob Bondurant
Drive to Win by Carrol Smith
This list came from this recent thread
https://rennlist.com/forums/racing-and-drivers-education-forum/342192-what-books-can-help-my-driving.html
Hope this helps.

 

Speed secrets is a great series of books. Also try the Vic Elford one, very informative.

Its all about how you want to drive and how your car is reacting. Everyone is nervous the first time around. You only go as fast as you want to go and its definitely the most fun you'll have with clothes on. Come join the party and take a toke on the track pipe.

Feel free to contact your local registrar and join them as a spectator of a event this summer to see what its like before you join one.

Of course, you could always just join mine, our registration is still open.........

Brian Daley, From Oswego, NY is one of our instructors in a '79 Track Beast.......

 

The 928 on a DE is ALOT of fun......an autocross...maybe not so much...a bit too tight for such a big car...but on the open track where the big power-tires-brakes-balance of the 928 come into play....it really shines.....granted I'm still a rookie....but its easy to keep up with far newer Porsches...in your stock old 928....the sound of the V8 at redline as your passing other Porsches.....its addictive!! Just get out there and try it....you'll be hooked!