Grand-Am
Finale,
Daytona International Speedway
Due to the conflicts from September and the postponement of the event,
practice sessions for the Grand-Am finale were few and short. Rather than
a qualifying session, as had been used by Grand-Am all season, qualifying for
the race was determined by TOPS points.
Because we did not join TOPS at the beginning of the season, we were forced
to start near the rear of the grid. Also when rescheduled, the race became
a night time race beginning at 6:00PM. Rain also threatened throughout the
weekend, but never became a factor. Most teams adopted a 2 stop strategy
for the race due to fueling needs. Our plan was to change drivers and fuel
at both stops with a tire change at the second stop.
Just before our second stop at about 2 hours into the
race, the engine began to misfire and lose power. We did the second stop
as planned and attempted to finish the race, but decided it would be best to
retire. We ended up 34th overall and 15th in class. This allowed
Cory to lock up 22nd in GT points out of over 140 competitors.
Once back at the shop, the problem was determined to
be a valve failure. The stem of the valve broke off and took the valve
spring and rocker arm with it. The Porsche Club Race at Carolina Motorsports
Park was the following weekend, so the engine and head were removed and rebuilt,
and the car was re-aligned in time to make our Test Day on Thursday. |
