Epic Double Victory: Corvette Racing's Mesmerizing Weekend at COTA
The hallowed grounds of Circuit of The Americas (COTA) witnessed a masterclass performance by Corvette Racing, as DXDT Racing's #63 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.R, meticulously piloted by Tommy Milner and Alec Udell, secured not just one, but two sensational victories over the weekend. This remarkable feat underscored their emergence as serious contenders in the GT World Challenge America. It was a spectacle that left fans and competitors alike in awe, as Milner and Udell clinched their second consecutive win on Sunday, racing through the vibrant landscape of Austin, Texas.
From Start to Finish: A Flawless Execution
Tommy Milner, a revered figure in the Corvette factory driving circle, thrust into action by taking the wheel at the race's onset. Strategically planned pit stops and unparalleled driving saw the duo tactically outmaneuver a mixed field of Pro and Pro-Am entries. Udell's stellar performance in the latter half of the race solidified a 4.633-second triumph. It was not merely a win; it was a statement, especially as it marked the first Pro-class victory for the Corvette Z06 GT3.R in its debut weekend. Saturday's early win was no fleeting moment of glory; it’s testimony to the meticulous engineering and relentless spirit evident in these beasts of the track.
The Strategy That Paid Off
The heartbeat of the race could be felt when Milner began the weekend's second encounter starting in sixth. The tactical brilliance by DXDT Racing shone when they elected for an early pit stop, transitioning from Milner to Udell. Emerging from the pit lane less than three seconds shy of the Pro-class leader, Udell intensified his stride, deftly navigating through the contenders. Within 15 minutes, he seized the lead, and his command over the remainder of the race was unwavering, showcasing both his skill and the car’s prowess.
A Weekend to Remember
Other entries, like the #08 DXDT Racing Corvette driven by Bryan Sellers and Scott Smithson, faced a challenging race, finishing 11th in the Pro-Am class due to an early flat tire. Despite this setback, Sellers showcased remarkable resilience, matching the lap times of the frontrunners upon rejoining. Unfortunately, being a lap down placed a substantial hindrance on their aspirations for a top-ranking finish.
The team celebrated not just the wins, but the culmination of efforts from team members and partners. Tommy Milner emphasized the collaborative spirit, expressing his pride in helping the team reach new heights. Alec Udell echoed these sentiments, highlighting the seamless integration into the team and the robust platform provided by the Corvette Z06 GT3.R. The team's combined efforts and unity played an indispensable role in carving out this historic weekend.
The Road Ahead
The next challenge for DXDT Racing with the Corvette Z06 GT3.R is slated for July 19-21 at the Virginia International Raceway. The anticipation is palpable, as the team aims to build on this weekend's successes. The path to greatness is paved with continuous learning, and DXDT Racing is primed to embrace every challenge head-on.
Hear from the Champions
TOMMY MILNER, NO. 63 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R:
"The biggest thing about being part of this program is helping this team with these new Corvettes for a little bit. They’ve done a great job so far with it and helping put the final touch on things just a little bit. Championships are one thing, but for me and Alec, it’s just about helping this team to continue to grow, learn these cars, and hopefully win some more races along the way."
ALEC UDELL, NO. 63 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R:
"This weekend was a statement to the platform and all the engineers who have put in a lot of hard work getting this car to where it’s at. From the team side and the joint venture between Corvette Racing, Pratt Miller, and DXDT Racing, it’s been awesome. For me to be able to jump in as well, plug myself in, and be a seamless part of the program, it’s great for the customer racing teams that are looking at the Corvette as an option. It’s a very proven platform at this point, so to be a part of that process is really cool. To have the people to learn from like Bryan and Tommy with DXDT and all our people, it’s been more than I could ask for. I’m looking forward to where we can go from here."
CHRISTIE BAGNE, CORVETTE Z06 GT3.R PROGRAM MANAGER:
"Congratulations to David Askew, Erin Gahagan, and everyone at DXDT Racing on a fantastic debut weekend with two victories in the Pro class with the No. 63 Corvette Z06 GT3.R. We are very proud of DXDT Racing’s achievements during its first weekend with two Corvette Z06 GT3.Rs. Saturday’s race victory – the first for our new Corvette – was special, but the team’s approach and performance throughout the weekend is what stands out most. It is a pleasure for us to support and watch the team’s successes."
Source:
CorvetteRacing.com
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Corvette Racing at COTA: First Win for Corvette Z06 GT3.R
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