I have been a "gear head" for as long as I can remember. Graduating from high school in 1968 meant I was lucky enough to grow up in the golden years of racing.

My first exposure to Porsches was a Speedster in the back of a lot that I discovered walking home from junior high. It fascinated me. From that point on, Porsches would hold a special interest for me.

I can remember when I saw the first photograph of a 917. Its massive wheels, aggressive stance and that insane motor were just the thing that turned on a 20-year-old young man.

At the time, I owned a 1955 Volkswagen, complete with flip-up turn signals and a sunroof. The 917 was air-cooled, and my Volkswagen was air-cooled, so I felt a certain companionship with Porsche automobiles.

I think the 917 will define a Porsche. Its record over the two-year period from 1970-1971, winning 16 out of 21 races, was a dominating performance. Everyone wants to be associated with a winner, and my little air-cooled Volkswagen made me feel part of a winning team.

Later in life as I started and operated my own small business, the "form follows function" philosophy that I saw in Porsche had a great influence on how I built my business. And I find that I follow that ideal in other aspects of my life as well.

I truly enjoy drawing and painting this great automobile!

Image: Dave Story