Driver: Marinus Damm

Co-driver: Renee Damm

Car: 2024 Porsche Cayman 718 GTS

Division: Grand Touring (GT)

Country: United States

Two-time GT champs looking forward to a great Targa on The Rock

Two-time Grand Touring (GT) champions Marinus and Renee Damm from Oregon are coming back to Newfoundland for another run at the podium.

The husband and wife team have an impressive resume with wins and podium finishes too numerous to mention here at rallies all over the north-western United States and western Canada.

They won the Grand Touring division at Targa in 2015 in a 2012 BMW 328 XiT Wagon and then took the title again the following year in a 2001 Porsche Carrera 4. This year, they are bringing a stunning, Racing Yellow 2024 Porsche Cayman 718 GTS to Targa.

Marinus began rallying in late 2005 after seeing an advertisement in the newspaper for a local car club. Most of his early motorheading was with motorcycles and beater-class American muscle cars. The handling of an e30 steered him away from ‘Vettes, and many miles on snow and ice made him an AWD believer. His proudest moments include crewing for a land speed racing record and his Targa runs. Outside of rallying he enjoys working on cars, motorcycling and making his wife smile. 

Renee caught the rally bug in 1974 when she saw an episode of “McMillan and Wife”, but did not start rallying regularly until 2005. Nicknamed “Princess PI”, she takes her place in the navigator’s seat. But, she has been known to drive their beloved 1990 BMW 325iX, affectionately known as Marilyn, on occasion. She’s recently retired from a long career of building software. While not competing, she organizes many rally events. She’s currently the co-chair of the Oregon Trail Rally. 

What first attracted them to Targa Newfoundland on the opposite side of the continent? “We heard about it from many ralliers over the years, who have it on their bucket list,” said Renee. “It sounded like a big challenge and a whole wheelbarrow full of fun.”

What brings them back this year? Their goal this time is simple. “We plan to have fun and see Targa friends,” said Renee.

The Damms belong to several clubs including Cascade Sports Car Club, Oregon Rally Group and Rainier Auto Sports Car Club. The team is sponsored by Trackside Motorsports, Elsa Bean, and Squeelers Racing Team.

You can read more about the them on their website: https://dammralliers.com/

Marinus has also written a number of posts about their driving and rally adventures. Check out some here: Marinus Damm, Author at BimmerLife