The next training was slalom. First, we watched the instructor’s demo and were told to focus on weight transfer. The key is to rhythmically accelerate, lift off, and turn, driving in harmony with the car.
Can I really do this…? (-_-)
To feel how the car behaves differently in 1st and 2nd gears, we started in 1st gear (PDK drivers switched to manual mode). But on the first run, I was so focused on avoiding cones that I didn’t even check my speed.
At the end, I glanced at the speedometer and saw only about 40 km/h, though it felt like I was definitely going over 50 km/h. I realized it’s scary to push the speed.
“Don’t suddenly lift off the accelerator; try easing off more gradually. Also, steer more sharply. Don’t be afraid—turning more will let you feel the car’s leaning motion!”
I thought, “So much to work on…” but watched other participants and mentally rehearsed before trying again, focusing on the advice.
Great! Now let’s increase speed and try 2nd gear!
“Ugh, more to do! (ﾟдﾟ)!” I thought, but when I tried 2nd gear, I noticed less engine braking and a different rhythm. Also, the GTS’s “bobbobobo” sound when lifting off the accelerator was really satisfying…
I felt like a racer attacking a series of curves (laughs)!
Then the instructor gave everyone this advice:
Everyone is leaning forward and gripping the steering tightly, so besides turning the wheel, you’re also supporting your arms and body, making steering less smooth. You’re probably pulling the wheel when turning, but you should push it instead. Press your back into the seat to stabilize, place your left foot on the footrest to brace yourself, and push the steering wheel. This will make steering easier!
When we all tried this, steering suddenly became much smoother, and everyone’s driving improved dramatically.
Instructors really are amazing…!(Of course!)
We probably did the slalom over 10 times. Each time, I had moments where I thought, “That was good!” Feeling in sync with the car and driving rhythmically was so satisfying.
At the same time, I realized again how difficult it is to reproduce good driving and improve precision. After the slalom, the instructor summarized:
By the end, everyone had the feel, but in the first or second run, the good driving from the lane change disappeared and they reverted to old habits. On a circuit, you don’t have time to practice laps to improve precision. You have to perform your best from the first lap. So in the afternoon’s practical session, try not to forget this feeling and aim to perform at your best right from the start.
That really hit home. I’m not a racer, but if I’m lucky enough to drive a Porsche with such amazing performance, I want to be able to unleash that performance and deliver stable driving anytime.
That wrapped up the morning session, and we took a lunch break. By then, I was quite tired, but it was a pleasant fatigue, and I felt a sense of camaraderie with the other participants—like being at a sports camp. (Though I was never on any sports teams, so I don’t really know what that’s like.)
I’ll share the afternoon training in a follow-up article soon. That’s all for now.
→ To be continued in the second part… https://www.panamera-life.com/entry/boxster-porsche-truck-experience-2/