Park Place Motorsports retired the No. 73 Porsche 911 GT3R early from the 55th running of the Rolex 24 At Daytona after contact sent the car flying into a tire barrier. After the damage sustained the car was unable to be driven.
“This is not how you want to end a race. Especially when you were out front,” Team Principal Patrick Lindsay said. “We had such a strong car. The guys worked really hard to make some changes and adjustments after the final practice. We were running strong before that hit. It really is a shame, but I can’t thank my team enough for all the hard work. We have the absolute best group of guys. I’m just sorry we can’t give them a result they deserve.”
Give Me Details
After starting from his 10th-place qualifying position Lindsey easily maneuvered the No. 73 through the field. He picked off spot after spot until he was leading the GT Daytona class. In fact, due to fuel stops and a caution Lindsey led overall late in his stint. Norbert Siedler took over for Lindsay after the two-hour mark. Siedler fought to maintain position during his stint, trading back and forth between second and first. Matt McMurry took over in the early evening hours. He was running third when the No. 8 Starworks Prototype Challenge car hit the No. 73 in the back left. The two cars were sent flying into the tire barrier.
And then….
McMurry walked away unharmed. Crew Chief Gary Buel received the No. 73 back in the garage where his crew ripped away dirt and debris. It was then he spotted damage to the tub of the car and officially retired from the Rolex 24 At Daytona. Jörg Bergmeister was the unfortunate fourth driver in the lineup and did not receive any drive time. The team will not earn points for Round One of the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. Not the start the team was hoping for.
Give Me Good News
During the pre-race ceremonies, a grid walk takes place where fans are allowed access to the drivers and cars. It was during the grid walk two fans struck up a conversation with Lindsey. Lindsey offered the woman a chance to sit in the No. 73. As she sat in the car she received a surprise when her boyfriend knelt down next to the door to not just see inside but to propose. The bride to be had tears in her eyes as she happily said yes. She exited the car to loud cheers and a kiss from her soon to be husband. Park Place Motorsports wishes them nothing but the best! We can hear the bells.
