BREAK/FIX the Motorsports & Vehicle Enthusiast Variety Show

Safety as a System (SaaS): Building Better Track Cars

This episode of Break/Fix, hosted by Brad and Eric from Gran Touring Motorsports, explores the importance of safety in motorsports through a comprehensive discussion with Mark Francis from OG Racing. The episode delves into various aspects of motorsport safety including the appropriate use and selection of steering wheels, seats, harnesses, helmets, and racing gear. They stress the concept of 'Safety as a System,' emphasizing how interrelated safety components work together to protect drivers. Topics covered include the pros and cons of different steering wheel materials, the reasons for using or not using certain types of seats and harnesses, the fitment and functionality of helmets, and the best types of racing gear to wear. The episode also touches on the importance of equal restraint systems for drivers and coaches, as well as tips for choosing the right equipment based on car type and personal preferences.
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00:00:00 Meet the Hosts and Tonight's Guests
00:00:50 Diving into Safety as a System
00:01:34 Steering Wheels: Preferences and Safety
00:02:56 The Debate on Airbags and Steering Wheels
00:05:19 Choosing the Right Seats for Your Car
00:07:15 The Importance of Proper Seat Fitment
00:12:36 Fixed vs. Sliders: What You Need to Know
00:20:52 Harnesses and Belts: Safety First
00:31:35 Inspecting and Maintaining Your Safety Gear
00:34:00 Replacing Seats After a Crash
00:34:16 Head and Neck Restraints: An Overview
00:35:04 Mandatory Head and Neck Restraints
00:35:30 Choosing the Right Head and Neck Restraint
00:36:12 Maintenance and Expiration of Hans Devices
00:37:13 Fitting and Adjusting Your Hans Device
00:37:42 The Debate: Safe Dual Use Cars
00:39:40 Building a Versatile Safety System
00:50:27 Equal Restraint for Driver and Passenger
00:57:01 Helmet Sizing and Fitment
01:05:01 Helmet Fit Issues
01:05:40 Proper Helmet Fit
01:06:52 Open Face vs Full Face Helmets
01:08:04 Helmet Modifications and Certifications
01:10:01 Helmet Expiration and Certification Dates
01:11:45 Helmet Durability and Care
01:17:44 Clothing for Track Days
01:21:56 Driving Shoes and Gloves
01:31:46 Final Thoughts and Safety Tips
01:33:21 OG Racing and Closing Remarks
====================
The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net
More Information: https://www.motoringpodcast.net/
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Drive Thru News #3 - September ‘20

This episode of The Drive Thru, GTM's monthly news, covers a wide range of automotive topics and motorsports updates from September 2020. The hosts, Brad, Eric, and Tania, discuss the unveiling of the Nissan Z Proto, comparisons between the new Bronco and Jeep Wrangler, and the potential sale of Bugatti to Rimac. They also review the newest supercars like the Maserati MC20 and Toyota GR Super Sport. The hosts talk about various partnerships in the EV market, including GM's stake in Nikola and Ford's development of an electric F-150. There is also engaging and humorous coverage of motorsports events like Le Mans and NASCAR, alongside DIY and unconventional automotive stories from around the world. Finally, they delve into some wacky car-adjacent news and upcoming GTM-specific episodes.
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00:00:00 Introduction and Sponsorships
00:00:58 Nissan Z Car Reveal
00:04:13 Ford Bronco Updates
00:10:05 Volkswagen and Bugatti News
00:12:34 Jeep Grand Wagoneer Unveiled
00:15:54 Maserati MC20 and Supercar Comparisons
00:19:52 Toyota GR Super Sport Preview
00:22:48 Automotive Conglomerates and Partnerships
00:25:57 Retro Cars and Throwback Thursday
00:37:30 Electric Car News: GM and Nikola Partnership
00:40:34 GM's Electric Gamble: Will It Pay Off?
00:41:40 Ford's Electric F-150: A Game Changer?
00:44:19 Electric Car Range Anxiety: Real or Overblown?
00:45:03 Polestar's EV Challenge: Can It Compete?
00:49:10 Fiat 500E: Small Car, Big Impact
00:52:13 The Future of EV Infrastructure
01:10:32 Luxury EVs: Lucid Air vs. Tesla Model S
01:13:05 Tesla's Build Quality Issues: A Closer Look
01:16:22 Randy Pobst's Pikes Peak Adventure
01:18:09 Aston Martin's Electric DB5 Junior: For the Rich Kids
01:20:27 Motorsports News: Le Mans Recap
01:20:58 Toyota's Dominance and Rebellion's Struggle
01:22:17 GT Pro Battle: Aston Martin vs. Ferrari
01:24:58 NASCAR News: Michael Jordan's New Team
01:27:04 Local Autocross Events and Partnerships
01:32:56 Motorsport Tragedies and Netflix Drama
01:37:04 Crazy Motorsport Stories
01:55:03 GTM Specific News and Shoutouts
====================
The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net
More Information: https://www.motoringpodcast.net/
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What Should I Buy? - Big Guys, Little Cars: We Talk Fitment, Frustration, and Finding the Right Ride

The episode of Brake/Fix features a lively panel of car enthusiasts discussing the challenges of being tall and large individuals in the world of cars designed for smaller people. Hosted by Brad and co-host Eric, the conversation covers their personal experiences with different vehicles, suitable car recommendations, and humorous stories. Special guests Andrew, Gordon, Jason, Crutch, and Brian share their heights, weights, and the cars they currently drive. They discuss fitting into classic and modern cars, the limitations they face, and the need for more accommodating designs from automakers. The group also fantasizes about their dream cars, both practical and aspirational. The episode ends with funny stories from their personal experiences with small cars, highlighting the unique struggles and humorous scenarios that tall and large car enthusiasts often face.
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00:00:00 Meet the Panel: Big Guys in Little Cars
00:01:01 Andrew's Story: From Miatas to Factory Five Roadster
00:01:31 Gordon's Journey: From CTS V to Track Enthusiast
00:03:37 Jason's Experience: Supersized and Searching for Space
00:04:46 Brian's Brief: Jeep Grand Cherokee and TDI
00:05:24 Michael Crutchfield: Beetle Turbo S and Track Tales
00:06:07 Brad's Perspective: GTI and Lotus Elise
00:06:30 Andrew's Roadster: Building and Fitting In
00:10:55 Gordon's Cadillac CTS V: From Daily Driver to Track Car
00:16:16 Finding the Right Fit: Seats and Safety Gear
00:20:33 Jason's Quest: Trying on Cars for Size
00:30:36 Dream Cars and Realistic Choices
00:33:04 Dream Cars and Price Tags
00:33:12 Athletic Families and Public Reactions
00:34:00 Fitting into Cars: The Struggle
00:34:40 The Wagon Debate
00:42:57 Big Guy, Small Car Stories
00:45:00 Rental Car Misadventures
01:02:25 The Challenger Hellcat: A Big Guy's Dream
01:06:28 Final Thoughts and Farewells
====================
The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net
More Information: https://www.motoringpodcast.net/
Become a VIP at: https://www.patreon.com/gtmotorsports
Online Magazine: https://www.gtmotorsports.org/

From VW Roots to Digital Legacy: Ed Sheets & the Bold Vision Behind TunerLog

In this episode of the Break/Fix podcast, hosts Brad and Eric interview Ed Sheets from Bold City Motorsports. Ed discusses his journey from starting in Maryland and forming a VW club to running Bold City Motorsports in Jacksonville, Florida. He introduces TunerLog, a new app designed to enhance the vehicle ownership experience by keeping detailed digital records of maintenance, modifications, and other vehicle data. The app aims to support enthusiasts and motorsport fans alike by offering features like receipt integration, video uploads, and data security. The episode also explores the potential for TunerLog in the motorsport community and its planned collaborations with various vendors and organizations.
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00:00:00 Meet Ed Sheets from Bold City Motorsports
00:01:06 Ed's Journey from Maryland to Jacksonville
00:03:55 The Birth of Bold City Motorsports
00:05:21 Track Cars and Family Stories
00:07:11 The Infamous Red R32
00:08:45 Favorite Volkswagen Generations
00:10:51 Bold City's Future Plans
00:14:07 Introducing TunerLog
00:17:36 TunerLog Features and Benefits
00:28:20 Transparency and Value in Car Sales
00:37:14 User-Based Point System and Badges
00:37:45 Track Insurance and Declared Value Policy
00:38:57 Tuner Log's Data Privacy Commitment
00:40:00 Monetizing Without Sharing Data
00:42:37 Transfer of Ownership and Receipt Drop Integration
00:55:09 Data Security and Compliance
01:00:58 Motorsports Integration and Future Features
01:07:32 Final Thoughts and How to Get Involved
====================
The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net
More Information: https://www.motoringpodcast.net/
Become a VIP at: https://www.patreon.com/gtmotorsports
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Touring Through Time: Classic Cars, Road Rallies, and the Spirit of Packard

The Break/Fix podcast focuses on sharing the stories of people in the automotive world, aiming to inspire a new generation of car enthusiasts. In this episode, Crew Chief Eric is joined by Gunther Hoyt, the director of the Colonial Community Classic Car Club and a member of the Old Dominion Region of the Packard Club. They discuss the discipline of Road Rally, what it's like to own a classic car in the digital age, and Hoyt's personal experiences with classic Packards. Hoyt shares insights on sourcing parts, maintaining classic cars, and the impact of Packard on automotive history. They touch on various topics, such as the advantages and challenges of different classic car brands, modern modifications for reliability, and memorable moments from car tours and races.
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00:00 Meet Gunther Hoyt: Classic Car Enthusiast
00:37 Exploring Road Rally and Touring
01:53 The Charm of Classic Car Tours
05:33 Restoration Shops and Their Impact
07:14 Defining a Classic Car
10:55 Challenges and Joys of Classic Car Ownership
17:04 Parts Sourcing and Maintenance
25:25 Modifications and Modernizations
28:32 Phil Hill's Influence on Classic Cars
29:26 Choosing the Right Classic Car: Entry Vehicles and Pitfalls
33:58 Cadillac vs. Packard: A Deep Dive
37:29 Packard's Global Influence and Post-War Decline
44:03 Modern Classics and Color Choices
48:34 Memorable Moments and Final Thoughts
====================
The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net
More Information: https://www.motoringpodcast.net/
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From PDX to HPDE: How WDCR SCCA Built a Community-Driven Track Experience

In this episode of the Break/Fix podcast, hosts Brad and Eric welcome leaders from the Washington DC Region of the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) to discuss the High Performance Driver Education (HPDE) program. Guests Joe Obernberger (Chief Instructor), Baron Mills (Assistant Chief Instructor), and Travis Dixon (former HPDE Chairman) provide insights into the history, evolution, and future of the HPDE program, which began as PDX in 2006-07. They delve into the program's structure, including novice, intermediate, and advanced levels, each with specific focus areas. The discussion emphasizes safety, vehicle preparation, classroom sessions, and the role of instructors. The SCCA's philosophy of community, volunteerism, and rigorous training is highlighted, along with information on how to register for events and the benefits of participating. The episode also touches on other aspects like track night events, the importance of track insurance, and opportunities for drivers to progress to time trials or racing, all within the supportive environment of SCCA.
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00:00:00 Meet the Hosts and Guests
00:01:12 History of SCCA HPDE Program
00:02:07 Evolution and Current State of HPDE
00:03:56 Unique Aspects of SCCA HPDE
00:15:42 Track Night in America and HPDE Differences
00:23:49 Safety and Insurance Considerations
00:31:22 How to Get Started with SCCA HPDE
00:33:36 Honesty in Run Group Selection
00:35:16 Importance of Two-Day Events
00:36:17 Early Registration Benefits
00:37:58 Understanding Event Supplementals
00:40:45 SCCA Tech Inspection Process
00:43:59 Novice Classroom Insights
00:47:47 Progression Through Run Groups
00:52:11 Instructor Clinics and Coaching
00:55:43 Extracurricular Activities and Volunteering
00:56:53 Pathways Beyond HPDE
01:00:29 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up
====================
The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net
More Information: https://www.motoringpodcast.net/
Become a VIP at: https://www.patreon.com/gtmotorsports
Online Magazine: https://www.gtmotorsports.org/

Drive Thru News #2 - August ‘20

The Drive Thru is GTM's monthly news episode, featuring Brad, Eric, and Tania covering a variety of automotive topics. They delve into the latest industry news, like BMW's announcement of the M3 Touring and its unavailability in the U.S., the Chevrolet Corvette C7 ZR1's top speed, and Cadillac's new electric SUV, the Lyriq. They also touch on niche stories, like the failed attempt to revive the Trabant as an electric vehicle and a Florida man's antics involving a Porsche and counterfeit checks. The episode rounds out with discussions on motorsports, including Formula 1 updates, the Indy 500, and a scary crash at a MotoGP race. The GTM crew also highlights their recent successful Summer Bash event and gives a nod to upcoming podcast episodes and new members. The episode concludes with quirky stories such as a square body truck hauling 32,000 pounds and a man riding on the hood of a semi-truck in his underwear in Florida.
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00:00:00 Introduction and Sponsors
00:00:54 BMW's New M3 Touring Wagon
00:04:46 Detroit's Corporate Drama
00:07:56 Chevrolet Corvette C7 and C8 Updates
00:12:51 Best GT Cars by Road and Track
00:16:35 Vehicles Discontinued in 2021
00:22:32 Best Cars for Teens in 2020
00:25:51 Electric and Hydrogen Car Innovations
00:32:35 The Hindenburg Disaster and Hydrogen Safety
00:33:15 Hyperion's Hydrogen Fuel Tank Innovations
00:36:00 Hydrogen Vehicles: Past and Present
00:37:44 Cadillac's New Electric SUV: The Lyriq
00:42:14 Tesla's Revolutionary Windshield Wiper
00:48:07 The Electric Trabant: A Retro Revival
00:51:33 Motorsport News and Updates
00:54:39 F1's 2020 Season Adjustments
00:55:58 Cheating in Motorsports: Historical Cases
01:02:15 Indy 500 and MotoGP Highlights
01:07:21 The Greatest F1 Driver Debate
01:08:55 Tom Cruise's Racing Career
01:12:58 Florida Man Strikes Again
01:17:50 Square Body Truck Challenge
01:21:01 DeLorean Watches and Brake Clean
01:27:38 Peter Brock Documentary
01:31:15 Lego and 3D Printed Cars
01:37:21 GTM News and Shoutouts
====================
The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net
More Information: https://www.motoringpodcast.net/
Become a VIP at: https://www.patreon.com/gtmotorsports
Online Magazine: https://www.gtmotorsports.org/

Latton Lads & the cursed MINI: A Motorsports Saga of Fire, Flood, and Brotherhood

This episode, hosted by Crew Chief Eric, features brothers John and Steve Wade, known affectionately as 'the Latton Lads.' They recount their motorsport journey, from fixing cars out of necessity when they were broke in England to engaging in competitive racing in the United States. Across decades, they've transformed from novices repairing an old Austin to seasoned racers with tales of trials, triumphs, and the occasional misfortunes involving cars, from enduring bear attacks to surviving fiery incidents on the track. Their enthusiasm for racing is matched only by their camaraderie and the supportive community they've found in motorsports, highlighting the importance of teamwork and continuous learning in the sport.
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00:00:00 Meet the Wade Brothers
00:00:51 Early Motorsports Adventures
00:04:08 The Origin of the Latin Lads
00:09:33 John's Car Collection
00:22:36 Steve's Journey with Minis
00:28:46 The Bear Incident
00:33:41 Racing at Watkins Glen
00:36:42 High-Speed Mini Adventures
00:37:01 The Talking Car
00:37:32 Power Steering Woes
00:38:27 Black Flags and Fire
00:38:49 Emergency Response
00:41:19 The Aftermath
00:44:28 Another Day at Shenny
00:51:19 Flooded Mini
00:56:09 The Bee Invasion
00:58:22 Planning the Next Mini
01:01:54 Advice for New Racers
01:11:27 Final Thoughts and Farewell
====================
The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net
More Information: https://www.motoringpodcast.net/
Become a VIP at: https://www.patreon.com/gtmotorsports
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Chin Track Days: From Closed Gates to a National Movement

This episode features Mark Hicks, COO and Director of Chin Track Days. They discuss the origins, operations, and philosophies of Chin Track Days, a prominent organization that facilitates high-performance driving events. The conversation covers the founding story by Dr. Weishen Chin at Sebring in 1999, the rebranding from Chin Motorsports to Chin Track Days, and the role of key figures like Vincent Howard. Mark shares details about their extensive event schedule, the technical inspection process, and the importance of safety and driver education. They also touch on the significance of track insurance, the organization's instructional programs, and the flag test used to advance drivers through run groups. The episode highlights various partners and sponsors supporting Chin Track Days and offers practical insights for both novice and seasoned drivers.
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00:00:00 Welcoming Mark Hicks
00:00:40 The Origin of Chin Track Days
00:02:01 The First Chin Motorsports Event
00:04:25 Rebranding to Chin Track Days
00:04:56 Growth and Expansion
00:06:30 Impact of COVID-19 on Events
00:09:19 Mark's Favorite Cars
00:13:29 The Traveling Circus of Chin Track Days
00:18:05 How to Register for Chin Events
00:25:30 Chin's HPDE Program
00:36:28 Mastering the Miata
00:37:10 The Chin Track Days Experience
00:38:04 Safety Culture and Risk Mitigation
00:42:43 The Importance of Warm-Up Sessions
00:47:33 Progression and Flag Tests
00:52:37 Tech Inspection Process
01:00:45 Track Insurance Considerations
01:10:06 Upcoming Events and Sponsors
01:15:06 Closing Remarks and Contact Information
====================
The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net
More Information: https://www.motoringpodcast.net/
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Story Time w/ Crutch (Part 2) - Kiwis & Koffee

Gran Touring Motorsport, originally a group for car enthusiasts, has evolved into a comprehensive platform for motorsports knowledge through their podcast Break/Fix. In this episode, Crew Chief Eric revisits Mike Crutchfield's experiences in New Zealand and Australia. Mike shares his observations about the unique car cultures, detailing everything from American car shows in New Zealand to dirt track racing. He talks about the differences in car culture, especially the prevalence of right-hand drive vehicles and the unexpected American muscle cars found there. Mike describes the challenging yet rewarding experience of driving on the narrow, winding roads, especially on Mount Panorama Circuit in Bathurst, Australia. Additionally, he touches on the local customs, such as the strict safety measures for track days in New Zealand and the vibrant burger and craft beer scene. Overall, Mike provides a vivid picture of the rich and varied motorsports landscape in these two countries.
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The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net
More Information: https://www.motoringpodcast.net/
Become a VIP at: https://www.patreon.com/gtmotorsports
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Story Time w/ Crutch (Part 1)

This episode of Break/Fix is a discussion between Crew Chief Eric and Mike Crutchfield, a significant figure within the GTM community. The conversation covers the origins and expansion of GTM, Mike's history and passion for motorsports, including his early interest in NASCAR, his experiences driving tracks in Germany, and his extensive involvement in DE (Driver Education) and coaching. Mike shares anecdotes from his driving adventures, insights into car selection for track enthusiasts, and advice for newcomers to motorsports. They also discuss the supportive and collaborative nature of the GTM community, Mike's additional hobbies like 3D printing and Lego building, and his contributions to GTM as a writer, coach, and region chief. The episode ends with Mike expressing gratitude for the community and looking forward to future endeavors.
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====================
The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net
More Information: https://www.motoringpodcast.net/
Become a VIP at: https://www.patreon.com/gtmotorsports
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What Should I Buy? - The Ones That Got Away

In this episode of the Break/Fix, hosts Brad and Eric lead a discussion with several club members, Hazmat, Crutch, and Mountain Man Dan, about the cars they regret parting with. The roundtable-style discussion dives into each member's personal stories of vehicles they wished they'd kept, from a rare Volkswagen GTI to a Ford Mustang Shelby GT350H and even an E28 M5. The episode also touches on their dream cars and ideal garage configurations, sparking debates on vehicle preferences and automotive passions. The episode concludes with a reminder to listeners to conduct their own research before making automotive purchases.
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00:00 Introduction and Special Guests
01:00 The One That Got Away: Matt's Story
04:21 Dan's Regretful Camaro
07:09 Mike's BMW Dilemma
09:30 Eric's Childhood Heartbreak
11:26 Brad's List of Lost Loves
17:40 Matt's Rental Car Adventures
23:27 The One That Got Away
23:54 European Car Adventures
24:49 The Super Beetle Story
25:28 Non-Running Cars Regrets
26:52 BMW Regrets and Reflections
30:12 Dream Garage Picks
31:43 Desert Island Car Choices
44:02 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up
====================
The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net
More Information: https://www.motoringpodcast.net/
Become a VIP at: https://www.patreon.com/gtmotorsports
Online Magazine: https://www.gtmotorsports.org/