Driving Passion and Purpose: Saverio's Journey with Just Hands
Nestled on Long Island in the town of Patchogue, Saverio Marzocca has built a life fueled by competition, passion, and resilience. A business owner, athlete, and now a high-performance driving enthusiast, Saverio's story is one of overcoming obstacles and finding purpose through motorsports—a journey sparked by a life-changing experience with Just Hands.
From Lacrosse Fields to the Open Track
For Saverio, sports have always been a cornerstone of life. Growing up, he played lacrosse with fervor and now competes with the Long Island Hammerheads wheelchair lacrosse team. But it wasn’t just lacrosse that occupied his competitive spirit—Saverio also trained in martial arts and jiu-jitsu until an injury sidelined those pursuits.
Enter Just Hands, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals with physical disabilities through high-performance driving experiences. A chance introduction by a teammate from the Hammerheads led Saverio to Lime Rock Park, where he had his first transformative track day.
That day was more than just a thrill ride; it was a reclamation of control. Years earlier, Saverio survived a devastating car accident, leaving him with lingering fears about losing control behind the wheel. "Although I wasn’t afraid to drive again, I struggled with a nervousness I couldn’t shake," Saverio admits. "Being able to push my limits and regain confidence helped me confront and overcome those inner demons."
From BMW Beginnings to Porsche Dreams
Saverio’s entry into motorsports was as symbolic as it was practical. He purchased the very first track car used by Just Hands—a BMW previously owned by co-founder Torsten Gross—and joined the Porsche Club of America (PCA) Metro New York Region. This move not only gave Saverio access to autocross events and High-Performance Driver Education (HPDE) days but also introduced him to a supportive and diverse motorsports community.
“I love the diversity of the participants,” Saverio says. “Seeing people of all ages and backgrounds driving competitively is inspiring. It’s a sport where you can stay active and engaged for a long time, and that’s incredibly motivating.”
While Saverio enjoys autocross for its accessibility and practice opportunities, his true passion lies in HPDE events, which provide more extended time on the track. "It’s my ultimate goal to focus on HPDE," he explains. "The mental flow state you reach when you’re fully in tune with the car is incredibly rewarding."
Mentors, Mindset, and Moving Forward
Saverio credits much of his progress in motorsports to mentors like Torsten Gross and Tom Patrizio from PCA Metro New York. Their guidance and encouragement have been instrumental in his growth as a driver. "Torsten and Just Hands have had a profound impact on my life," Saverio shares.
Through Just Hands, Saverio not only rebuilt his confidence but also discovered a platform to channel his competitive nature. “Motorsports isn’t just about speed—it’s an art form," he reflects. "It’s about cognitive awareness, patience, and trusting the car."
Saverio is now setting his sights on the future. His immediate goal is to perfect his skills with his current car, but he’s already dreaming of stepping up to a Porsche Cayman S for more advanced competitions, such as time trials.
[UPDATE] As of December 2024, Saverio took the next step: he bought a 2009 Porsche Cayman for track days.
Giving Back and Building Community
Beyond the track, Saverio’s commitment to giving back shines through. His plumbing and restoration businesses—Sav-On Sewer & Drain and Green Solutions Restoration—regularly support causes for individuals with cognitive and physical disabilities. He envisions one day forming a race team through his business, combining his professional success with his love for motorsports.
“It’s about creating opportunities, not just for myself but for others,” Saverio says. “Motorsports has given me so much, and I want to pay it forward.”
The Road Ahead
For Saverio Marzocca, life is about more than overcoming challenges—it’s about thriving in the face of them. Motorsports, with its blend of adrenaline, precision, and camaraderie, has given him a new lease on life. Through the Just Hands Foundation, he’s found not only a hobby but a calling—a way to reclaim control, build community, and inspire others to pursue their passions, no matter the obstacles.
And as Saverio tears down the straightaways and hugs the curves of each new track, he knows one thing for certain: the road ahead is as thrilling as the journey so far.
