Zone 1 2005 Concours/Rally

The 2005 Zone 1 Concours and Rally, sponsored by the Down East Region, Porsche Club of America (DERPCA), was held in Portland, Maine on May 21-22, 2005.

In hopes of replicating DERPCA’s magnificent 1986 Parade, the events were designed to showcase the scenic coast of Maine. In addition, this year’s event focused on the Rally, the Concours, and the LOBSTER!

The extended weekend began on Friday afternoon when our local Porsche Dealer, Morong of Falmouth, agreed to bring a new Boxster S to our hotel site – The Marriott at Sable Oaks, South Portland – for display. We were challenged by the need to clear a 6” curb, but with the help of two Morong delegates and Colleen from Sables Oaks, and with some careful maneuvering, we were able to get the Boxster in a great spot.

Concours preparation took place on Friday afternoon and Saturday. Participants had wonderful car-cleaning facilities at the hotel, including a fully-equipped wash station and an isolated parking lot. What more could one ask for?

Saturday morning included registration, under the direction of Don Wolcott and Nann Weissenberger.

Accompanying them at the table were Bob Michaelson and his wife Terri, our Rally Masters. In a room close by, Sally Sprafka from DERPCA, was conducting the Novice Rally School. Sally designed the course and appropriately educated new (and old) Rally participants in the fine details of rallying.

The Rally started with many smiles. The check points were great fun to watch – for the participant’s faces as well as the unsuspecting passers-by. Although there were a few DNF’s, all were back in time for Lobster.

The weather finally got the better of us late Saturday afternoon, and the Lobster Bake venue was moved from the outdoor tent to the Marriott Ballroom – driven by predictions of rain and 50 degrees.

GOOD CHOICE! Even though we were inside, it was truly a fabulous Down East Feast.

During the banquet, Alexandria Barnett sold raffle tickets with great enthusiasm, raising close to $1,200 for the Hole in the Wall Gang. Great job, Alexandria!

Zone 1’s hospitality was on display as participants were greeted in Henry Hoeh’s suite both Friday and Saturday evenings. DERPCA extends special thanks to Henry, Don and Nann, and Betty Tremper. Good conversation and story-telling abounded.

Next came the focal point of the weekend: Sunday’s Concours at Fort Williams and Portland Head Light, in Cape Elizabeth. The plan was get up early, head to the site, set up and enjoy the coastal views. Don Deegan from Niagra was the first to arrive. His Porsche was out of his trailer and all set up when Don Michaud, DERPCA Concours chairman arrived, followed shortly by new DERPCA President Ned Vadakin. when When they noticed that they appeared to be the only participants, they immediately suspected something might be amiss. After a few calls they learned that the weather had indeed gotten the best of the event. Back to the hotel!

John Paterak and Henry Hoeh quickly secured a plan with the hotel to use the Lobster Bake Tent for Concours Judging. No tall ships sailing by; no ocean views; no salt water smell; no waves pounding against the rocks. Rather, a tent in a hotel parking lot.

Under the circumstances, it was the best we could do. Judging went well, albeit quickly. Six cars at a time. People’s choice in the rain. Not exactly as planned, but certainly designed to provide talking points for future events!

May 21 & 22, 2005

Rain fails to Dampen Spirits at Zone 1 Concours and Rally