Hyundai Motor America earned an exceptional performance at the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge event at the Canadian Tire Motorsport Park. The team secured a remarkable double-podium finish with two Bryan Herta Autosport (BHA) pairings: Robert Wickens and Harry Gottsacker, as well as Mark Wilkins and Mason Filippi.
Demonstrating their prowess on the track, the No. 33 Hyundai Elantra N TCR, driven by Wickens and Gottsacker, qualified third for the Canadian Tire Motorsport Park 120. As the race progressed, the duo showcased their skills and managed to take the lead in the TCR class by the halfway point of the intense two-hour race. Despite facing the challenge of fuel conservation due to an early pitstop, Wickens defended his position diligently. Ultimately, a contact incident on the penultimate lap caused him to relinquish the lead. However, Wickens displayed unwavering determination and finished a commendable second after making an additional pitstop at the end of the lap.
Joining their BHA teammates on the podium, Mark Wilkins and Mason Filippi secured third place, having climbed two positions since qualifying. With this outstanding achievement, Wickens and Gottsacker currently hold the top spot in the IMPC TCR class drivers’ championship standings, with a 20-point advantage over Wilkins and Filippi.
Meanwhile, luck was not on the side of the other two Hyundai Elantra N TCR entries in Canada. Taylor Hagler and Michael Lewis, representing BHA, encountered a setback when a left-front flat tire issue caused the No. 1 Elantra N TCR to fall behind. Similarly, the No. 91 Elantra N TCR driven by Tyler Maxson and Bryan Ortiz, part of van der Steur Racing, faced early troubles that prematurely ended their race. Despite these challenges, Hyundai Motor America remains undeterred in their pursuit of success in the IMPC season.
Their next test will be at the Lime Rock Park 100 in Lakeville, Connecticut, on Saturday, July 22nd, 2023.
