Mike Pickup - 2010 Porsche Carrera Cup GB Team Member
So what do you do?
I'm Motorbase Performance's Porsche Carrera Cup GB team manager. I make sure the right things are happening when they should be, that everyone is happy and knows what they need to be doing and that we all adhere to the rules and regulations.
What have you been up to over the summer break?
I've been on the phone to the team members, visiting them when they least expect it and making sure they're ready and up for the restart! I've also had time to relax too!
How long have you worked for Motorbase Performance?
I've been the Team manager here since the start of this season. I have been involved with running Porsche teams for over 25 years over both here and in the States.
I sold up in 2007 as I needed a break, and this opportunity was too good to miss. Being a Team Principle is a really tough job, it's very hard to get a group of like-minded and talented people together who all get on, I know I spent years trying to! Personally, I had enough of the administrative side of running a team, getting together finances, sponsorships, paying the bills. It's a rewarding but tough life, so being able to run the team without having that pressure is a lovely relief for me and it means I can really enjoy each and every race weekend and work for a professional outfit that takes a great deal of pride in its racing.
Best moment of the season so far?
There are lots so it's hard to pick one. I suppose for me seeing the progression of drivers like Liam and George has been a revelation. They are new to Porsches and they are both improving so much each race, it gives me a lot of pleasure to see them on the podium and battling it out, learning their craft.
Ollie is also coming on very well and that's great as is Michael's progression and humour!
Worst moment of the season so far?
The worst moment hasn't come yet because we haven't been up to Knockhill yet! It's such a long way that, after such a long weekend you really don't need the eight-hour drive back! So although going is great, coming home isn't and I'm not looking forward to that.
What's your favourite track?
I spent many years in the States so for me, the best track in the world is Leguna Seca. As a small boy I always dreamt of visiting certain circuits, and often when I would arrive they just didn't live up to my expectations.
Laguna Seca did in every way, and it exceeded them. It is absolutely stunning and the Corckscrew is just insane and challenging` as it looks on the telly. I love everything about the circuit.
In the UK I suppose I'm most fond of Snetterton as it has a bit of everything. Oulton Park is also very beautiful. I was born and bred in Chester so that's where I saw my first race as a three year old. I've been in love with the sport ever since.
How important is it to get on with the drivers and other team members?
It's very important and here at Motorbase the vibe in the camp is second to none. I have to give my respects to David Bartrum as for me, the atmosphere starts from the top and works its way down. It's his spirit and attitude as well as his ability to pick gifted team members who all get along that makes Motorbase such a special operation.
Do you have any advice for aspiring mechanics and racing fans who would like to work for a race team?
I think you have to be prepared to do anything and everything. From washing wheels, which is how I got into the sport. I then started working at Porsche, helping out where I could. From there I progressed to junior mechanic, and I was fortunate enough to be given an opportunity to race, and I did pretty well. So don't expect it to happen overnight, and work hard and show people what you're capable of.
All time favourite road and race car?
It has to be the Porsche 917 Le Mans 1967 race winner, which I believe has also been converted to a road car by a few enthusiasts; if that counts!
PORSCHE TEAM MEMBERS 2010:
