Patrick Long, a racing legend with 20 years of experience driving Porsches for Porsche AG, has been working on his next project after retiring from racing. Alongside his friend Howie Idelson and with the help of Jeff Zwart, he started Luftgekühlt, a gathering of air-cooled Porsches in unique locations.
Luftgekühlt, affectionately known as 'Luft' by its enthusiasts, has become the hottest ticket in town wherever it goes. Traditionally held in California, the event has recently expanded to other countries, including Germany, Denmark, the UK, and most recently, Japan.
The 10th edition of Luftgekühlt at Universal Studios back lots was a huge success, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the 911 Turbo. The event showcased an impressive array of Porsche models, including 908s, 910s, 962s, GT3s, and numerous 911s.
Luftgekühlt's international events have been well-received, with stops in Europe and Asia. Long is particularly proud of breaking into the Asian market, which he believes was a long time coming.
The event's expansion into Asia was made possible after a site visit over a decade ago. The inaugural Japanese Luftgekühlt took place on a 2-kilometer closed-down expressway in Ginza, Tokyo, and was an instant success.
Ginza is known for its fashion-forward vibe, making it the perfect location for Luftgekühlt's debut in Japan. The event went into the night, with the skyline illuminated on both sides, creating a truly unique visual experience.
In addition to the numbered Luft shows, which are the main draw, Luftgekühlt also hosts Air/Water events. These shows are open to all Porsches, regardless of cooling system, and offer a different format for attendees.
The next Air/Water show is scheduled for April 25 at the OC Fair & Event Center in Orange County, California. Last year's event was held in Durham, North Carolina, and has been well-received by Porsche enthusiasts.
With its unique blend of automotive passion and cultural exchange, Luftgekühlt continues to grow as a premier destination for Porsche fans worldwide.
