Tangible proof that the CVR AutoX Series has reached new heights was easy to see at Porsche Hartford’s annual AutoX Celebration. Being the first group to christen the brand new Gen5 facility showroom felt more like we were in a thematic upscale nightclub that provided the perfect ambiance for the party. In all of CVR’s 65 years, this was truly the best setting ever for such a celebration. Even more special, we were allowed to do this in advance of the official Nov 12th grand opening gala. What a great relationship we have with Porsche Hartford. They also provided Driver’s Selection polo shirts, with custom CVR AutoX and Hoffman Cup logos, and other thoughtful goodies for each of the Top-20 drivers. These will evoke nice memories for years to come.
Such a special occasion deserved a personal and special thanks. Combining the opening of the spectacularly modern Gen5 Porsche Hartford facility with the 30th anniversary of the 1995 GT2 inspired me to make a special painting to capture their beautiful new silver building, complementing the flowing red and silver livery of the GT2. I was honored to present the finished art to long-time friend Ethan Gombossy, and to the whole Hoffman team on behalf of our CVR AutoX team. We hope the gift expresses our sincere gratitude and joy.
AutoX-U focuses on advancement of everyone’s driving skills at each event. This has paid off for everyone. Even as the benchmark Fastest Time of Day evolves upward year after year, so do the other scores as well. Data shows that, yes indeed, we are getting faster as a group together. Top-20 drivers were 3.56% faster this year than last. How’s that for a new height?
The strong “current of advancement” pulls everyone further along the journey. Your friends and instructors are more skilled than ever, and they get great joy in encouraging and coaching you to join them. This “secret” is one that Ed Bogue noted that evening, something he and Paul have enjoyed for decades. Both thoroughly enjoy pushing and helping each other upwards while welcoming others to do the same. That’s the true joy of participating in CVR AutoX events.
Another measure of this success, several CVR AutoXers challenged themselves elsewhere this year. Applause congratulated Tony Bogue and John Raudat for their recent podium finish at the ultra-competitive SCCA Regional Spec Miata race, held at the historic Thompson track in October. Many drivers competed but driving skills honed as CVR AutoX shined.
Congratulations also rang out for the accomplishments of David Carlson, Scott Sylvester, Tim Marx, and Mike Appel. Out of the hundreds that tried, they made the top-30 and earned an invitation to the annual FCP Euro Invitational AutoX Shoot-Out in October at Lime Rock’s infield course. They distinguished themselves further with notable finish positions at the event. Of note, many participants at the Lime Rock event commented about the clear CVR spirit and camaraderie displayed as the CVR AutoX team cheered and helped each other do their best.
Almost culminating the wonderful evening, Ethan and Trevor from Porsche Hartford presented the famed Hoffman Cup Run Off trophy. This year was the tenth running of the now nationally renowned event and it provided the usual humbling and talented display of driving skill. Tim Mahr was met with thunderous applause for this highest of driving achievement. While usually tight competition, this year it was empirically evident that the number of likely winners after the first round or two was about double that of some previous years and was way too close to predict. Yes, the pool is now much deeper.
The Most Improved AutoX driver award went to Derek Januario. Since he was unable to attend the celebration, Paul recounted the story of presenting the award to him at his home the night before. The applause was well deserved since Derek showed the unusual ability to bridge his track experience into AutoX. Most DE drivers are disappointed to see how that transition is not easy. Derek is an exception and showed he could quickly expand his driving skills.
AutoX Rookie of the Year honors went to Mason Holt. This is a big deal, especially this year. Mason showed that although new to high performance driving, he learns quickly and is already developing solid driving skills. Most impressive was Mason’s showing in the Hoffman Cup Run Off, finishing an astounding 6th overall in his rookie year! Congratulations Mason, and welcome to both you and Derek. Both just missed making the Top-20 this year and I’m sure both will be adding to that tight race next year.
While this year reached new heights in many ways, one constant as seen at the Hoffman AutoX Celebration and throughout the year, is the CVR AutoX spirit of helping each other advance. Thank you again Porsche Hartford for such enthusiastic support in doing so.
Join us next season for Better Driving… Faster!