Racing is back with the IMSA Prototype Challenge Presented by Mazda kicking off the 2018 North American season-opener at Daytona International Speedway. A total of 13 LM P3s from a trio of constructors, with the Norma M30 of Forty 7 Motorsports and the Ave-Riley AR2 of Ave Motorsports joining 11 Ligier JS P3s.
With Josh Hurely and Gary Gibson sharing the driving duties, the team enjoyed a solid weekend in testing, finishing the second session in P2. In qualifying, the #44 Ave-Riley LMP3 turned in a 1:46.659 to start 4th on Saturday’s grid. Gibson cruised to the win in LMP3 Masters in the Ave-Riley AR2 along with co-driver, Josh Hurley.
“It’s been a fantastic weekend for us,” said Tony. “The crew has worked hard getting the car up to speed, and Josh and Gary have been great behind the wheel. I definitely think we’ve got the program going in the right direction. The Ligiers have 11 cars out there churning out and sharing data… we’re left to figure this out on our own. Needless-to-say, we’ll take the Master’s win and this top five overall finish and build from here. I’m pleased.”
The IMSA Prototype Challenge Presented by Mazda race was the only race of the weekend but not the only series on track. The WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, as well as the Continental Tire SportsCar Challenge, are here testing as is typical for the ROAR weekend. The race broadcast will air on a later date in February on FOX Sports 2.
