Breaking: Corvette Z06 GT3.R Secures Stunning Victory at COTA
Corvette Racing at COTA: First Win for Corvette Z06 GT3.R">
Photo Credit: CorvetteRacing.com
Historic Win for Corvette Z06 GT3.R
In an electrifying twist of fate, DXDT Racing clinched the first-ever race victory for the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.R at the Circuit of The Americas (COTA) on May 18, 2024. Spearheaded by Corvette factory drivers Tommy Milner and Alec Udell, the duo ushered the No. 63 Pro-class Corvette into the spotlight, winning by a remarkable 3.706 seconds during their debut race in the GT World Challenge America.
The win is monumental not just for the drivers but for the entire Corvette Racing program. With trackside drama and high-speed maneuvering, the visage of the Corvette Z06 GT3.R leading the charge on its maiden run is etched forever in racing lore. Two weeks prior, DXDT's No. 08 Z06 GT3.R made waves at Sebring, featuring Bryan Sellers and Scott Smithson in the Pro Am class.
Qualifying Challenges and Race Execution
Alec Udell earned the Pro pole position on Saturday but faced immediate adversity. Navigating around a spinning car at the first corner, Udell fell back to fifth overall. However, his skillful recovery pushed the Corvette up through the ranks.
Post the mandatory pit stop at the 40-minute mark, Tommy Milner capitalized on Udell’s work and set the race’s fastest lap, steering the Corvette through to its triumphant finish. Notably, Bryan Sellers and Scott Smithson gave a commendable performance, securing fifth place in the Pro-Am class.
Driver and Team Reaction
The victory brought an outpouring of emotions from the team. Tommy Milner emphasized the emotional weight of securing the maiden win for the Z06 GT3.R. “This is a pivotal moment for Chevrolet, for Corvette Racing and for Pratt Miller,” Milner stated. “The credibility of the car has been evident, but this win removes any lingering doubts.”
Alec Udell echoed this sentiment, noting the relief that comes with a victory early in a new program. “Achieving this win so soon speaks volumes about the caliber of our team and the Corvette itself,” said Udell. For the home crowd, this victory was particularly symbolic.
Team Leadership’s Take
Christie Bagne, the Corvette Z06 GT3.R Program Manager, attributed this accomplishment to widespread collaboration. “Congratulations to Alec, Tommy, David Askew, and everyone at DXDT Racing,” she said. “This victory is the result of extensive teamwork and preparation, dating back to our debut at Sebring.”
Adding to the excitement, the GT World Challenge America’s weekend finale was set for Sunday at 2:15 p.m. CT, streamed live on the YouTube GT World channel.
Conclusion
The first win at COTA signifies not just a technical achievement but an emotional release for the Corvette Racing team and fans alike. With the Z06 GT3.R proving its mettle right out of the gate, the future of Corvette Racing seems incredibly promising.