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From the Southern Palatinate to the race track
Growing up in the Southern Palatinate, just a stone's throw away from the Green Hell and the Hockenheimring, the path to motorsport was almost predetermined. Even as a teenager, I was tinkering with cars, mopeds and motorbikes - anything with wheels and an engine was exciting. Back then, I used to go out on the track with old crates, and by then I knew: this is my world.
I later realised my dream of owning my own Porsche G-Model. Numerous track days followed - at some point it became clear that the standard car was no longer enough. So along came the Porsche 944 S, completely built as a racing car. I raced it on trackdays, in the NATC and in the DMV Classic Masters and was able to celebrate several class victories on legendary tracks such as Hockenheim, Zolder, Nürburgring and Oschersleben. That was when it finally became clear: motorsport is more than just a hobby - it's a passion.
A year dedicated to the racing line
In 2022, I took a career break and dedicated it entirely to motorsport. 46 track days in one year - pure madness, but one of the best times of my life. During this phase, I completed my national A licence and then the international C licence. I competed in the Porsche Sportscup with a Porsche Cayman GT4 Clubsport - a completely new experience at a professional level. It was during this time that I learned to appreciate the trackdays organised by the Pistenclub: perfect organisation, fair drivers and always a well-coordinated team. Motorsport is simply fun.
GT4 RS - pure fascination
I've been driving a Porsche GT4 RS since 2023 - a fascinating car that leaves nothing to be desired in terms of precision and driving experience. I use it almost exclusively for track days and enjoy every minute on the track.
In the summer, I'm regularly drawn back to my home in the Southern Palatinate, where I drive the Pistenclub trackdays at the Hockenheimring. It's a bit like coming home every time: everything is perfectly organised, the team is well-rehearsed, good food, fair drivers and lots of driving fun. What I particularly appreciate: Horst and Nina from Boes Motorsport. With their team, they not only provide technical support, but also look after people and machines. My ten-year-old son was even allowed to help change the brake pads last summer - Nina patiently explained everything to him. You don't forget moments like that.
Community, passion, driving fun
What makes the piste club so special for me is the atmosphere: people know each other, respect each other and share the same passion. We drive fairly, treat each other with camaraderie and talk shop together in the evenings - that's real club life. Whether with the G-Model, the 944 S or the GT4 RS - each car tells its own story. But one thing always remains the same: the joy of driving, the community and the adrenalin when you're on the starting grid. I'm already looking forward to the coming season, to new tracks, new encounters - and to many more perfect days on the racing line with the Pistenclub.
About the author
Thorsten Raquet (47) lives in Hamburg and is CEO of Cloudwyse GmbH. When he is not accompanying companies into the digital future, he can be found on European racetracks - usually in a GT4 RS, often with a broad grin under his helmet.
‘My own limit is my role model’
Thorsten Raquet is not only the CEO of an IT company, but also a passionate motorsport enthusiast with petrol in his blood. When he's not digitising SMEs, he can be found on European racetracks - usually in a GT4 RS and always with a big grin on his face. We are delighted that Thorsten is part of the Pistenclub community - and asked him for an interview.
Thorsten, it's great that you're on the racing line with us! Can you tell us why you're actually part of the Pistenclub?
It's simple: the Pistenclub is very well organised - and the people are all nice, relaxed and enthusiastic about motorsport. The overall package is just right. It's not about vanity or showing off your horsepower, but about a genuine passion for driving.
You have already travelled to many racetracks. Is there one that is particularly close to your heart?
Yes, Oschersleben is definitely my favourite track. I've driven some of my best races there - technically demanding, fast, but still flowing. You really have to work your way round it, and that's exactly what I like.
Do you still remember your first car?
Sure - it was a Ford Fiesta. Small and modest, but everyone starts small, right?
Are you also active in motorsport outside of the Pistenclub?
Absolutely! I race myself, for example in the NATC, the DMV and the Porsche Sportscup. And I also enjoy being a spectator - DTM, Formula 1... The main thing is the racing atmosphere and the sound of the engine.
Was there a particular highlight that you will always remember?
Yes, definitely! In 2024, I was in the Formula 1 paddock in Barcelona - at Mercedes. I had the opportunity to meet Lewis Hamilton in person.
Is there anyone you see as a motorsport role model?
To be honest: my own limit. I don't orientate myself on big names, but on how I can improve myself. Every day on the track is a new challenge - and my goal is to get a little better every time.
Thorsten, thank you very much for the interview and your insights. We look forward to to see you with a big grin under your helmet at our trackdays!
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