Story & Photos Submitted by Christian Prakas

From a young age, I was captivated by the allure of Porsche

There was something about the sleek lines, the iconic silhouette, and that unmistakable sound of a flat-six engine that stirred my soul. The Porsche 911, in particular, was the car that always caught my eye. It's not just a car; it's the quintessential sports car, a benchmark of performance, and a symbol of automotive excellence that has stood the test of time. For me, owning a 911 wasn’t just about driving—it was about living a dream that had been with me since I could remember.

 In 2024, I finally took the plunge and bought my first 911. And let me tell you, the addiction was immediate. From the moment I sat behind the wheel and felt the engine roar to life, I knew I was hooked. It wasn't just about speed or handling—although the 911 delivers both in spades - it was about the entire experience. The connection between driver and machine, the way the car responds to every input with precision and grace, and the pure joy of driving something that feels like an extension of yourself.

 Once you get bitten by the Porsche bug, it’s hard to stop. It wasn’t long after I bought my first 911 that I found myself fully immersed in the Porsche community. I started attending as many Porsche Club of America (PCA) events as possible, eager to learn more, share stories, and just be around others who shared my enthusiasm. One of the greatest joys has been sharing this passion with my two-year-old son Brooks, who already lights up at the sight of a Porsche crest. It’s something special to see him get excited about the same cars that have fascinated me for so long.

 The bug bit me hard, and before I knew it, I was on the hunt for my second 911. I most recently acquired a 2002 996 that I track and drive as much as possible and then bought a Cayenne for a company car. As if that was not enough I’m on the lookout for a 991 GT3RS to complete what I consider my perfect garage.

 There’s something deeply satisfying about setting a goal, working towards it, and then seeing it parked in your garage. For me, it’s more than just acquiring cars; it’s about building a collection that reflects my passion and dedication.

 One of the greatest things about our car hobby, and Porsche in particular, is the people. There's a great saying in the car world:

"You get started because of the cars, but you stay because of the people”… I couldn’t agree more!

 PCA and the Gulfstream Region have become a great release for me and another way to spend quality time with my family while doing something we all enjoy. The camaraderie, the shared experiences, and the genuine friendships I’ve formed have been just as rewarding as any drive I’ve ever taken. It’s a community built on a shared love for these incredible machines, but it’s the people that make it truly special.

 So, why did I buy my first Porsche? It was the fulfillment of a lifelong dream, but it has become so much more than that. It’s about the joy of driving, the thrill of performance, and the incredible community that comes along with it. And while the cars are amazing, it’s the people and the experiences that keep me coming back. Here's to more miles, more memories, and many more years of being part of this incredible PCA family.