Aston Martin’s Vantage GT3 Secures First U.S. Victory at Watkins Glen in IMSA WeatherTech Championship

25.06.2024
  • Aston Martin Vantage GT3 Secures First IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship Win at Watkins Glen
  • The Heart of Racing Team Triumphs in Rain-Affected Six Hours of the Glen
  • Ross Gunn Advances in IMSA GTD Pro Class Championship Battle
  • Vantage Dominates Globally with Wins in FFSA GT, Michelin Pilot Challenge, NLS, and British GT Championship at Spa

Monday, 24 June 2024, Watkins Glen, North America: Aston Martin’s new Vantage GT3 celebrated its first U.S. victory with a stunning performance in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship’s GTD Pro class at Watkins Glen.

Works driver Ross Gunn (GBR) and FIA World Endurance Championship regular Alex Riberas (ESP) executed an impressive comeback during the rain-impacted Six Hours of the Glen endurance race. The event was temporarily halted due to standing water on the track.

Despite losing a lap earlier when caught on unsuitable tires amid changing weather conditions, THoR showcased strategic brilliance and benefited from Riberas’ skillful driving to re-enter contention.

After racing resumed post-red flag period with just 16 minutes remaining, Gunn found himself trailing only a Corvette. With fuel running low for his competitor under slippery conditions, he pressured them into pitting on the final lap—securing THoR’s lead and eventual win.

“This is a fantastic day for The Heart of Racing team and Vantage,” said team principal Ian James. “We’ve worked hard all season for this result.”

“The new Vantage GT3 excels in all conditions,” added Gunn after celebrating his eighth class victory stateside. “It feels like this success has been building up.”

Gunn now ranks third overall while Riberas stands eighth after missing Laguna Seca due to competing elsewhere. Partner team Magnus Racing also secured a podium finish with drivers John Potter (USA), Andy Lally (USA), and Spencer Pumpelly (USA).

Globally through June alone:
– D’station Racing won SUPER GT300 category at Suzuka.
– Blackthorn Racing clinched Road to Le Mans race before securing second place at Spa-Francorchamps.
– Walkenhorst Motorsport triumphed SP9 Pro-Am class within ADAC Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie.
– Forsetti Motorsport achieved fourth-class win leading both Silver & Pro-Am classes across four rounds remaining.

“June has been monumental,” stated Adam Carter Head Of Endurance Motorsports “Our partner teams have shown remarkable performances worldwide.”

The next round takes place July 14th Canadian Tire Motorsport Park Canada marking another milestone opportunity ahead!