Pirelli GT4 America: RAFA Racing Team Triumphs at Circuit of The Americas
The Pirelli GT4 America series concluded its sole endurance race of the season, the Lone Star Enduro, at Circuit of The Americas. Over three hours of intense racing, the event highlighted pivotal moments that shaped the final standings, particularly in the last 12 minutes.
Race Highlights
Overall Results:
- Winners: RAFA Racing Team in the Silver class
- Pro-Am Victory: BimmerWorld entries dominated
- Am Class Champion: BimmerWorld’s No. 36 entry
In the Silver class, Gresham Wagner quickly seized the lead in the No. 68 Toyota Gazoo Racing GR Supra GT4 EVO2. However, Brayden Arthur of JMF Motorsports snatched the lead during a caution period after a strategic pit stop.
JMF’s hopes diminished during driver changes, resulting in a drive-through penalty that compromised their position. Capitalizing on this, Colin Garrett of Auto Technic Racing took over the lead in the No. 52 BMW M4 GT4 (G82) EVO, but Wagner reclaimed the top spot before the final pit stop.
As the race resumed post-caution, Tyler Gonzalez emerged from the pits, leading with commanding pace. Despite intense battles behind him, including a notable incident involving Zac Anderson and Mike David Ortmann, Gonzalez maintained the lead to secure victory.
“I knew we had the pace — this Toyota Supra is just absolutely amazing out there,” said Gonzalez post-race.
Pro-Am Class Insights
Anthony McIntosh began strong from pole in the No. 69 Toyota Gazoo Racing GR Supra GT4 EVO2 but lost ground during a caution before making a strategic pit stop. Thomas Merrill charged forward, briefly leading before a mix of penalties reshuffled the field.
In the closing stages, James Walker Jr. from BimmerWorld capitalized on his experience, reclaiming the lead despite a drive-through penalty. The final minutes saw a fierce battle for podium positions, ultimately won by Walker Jr., with Michael Cooper claiming third after an opportunistic maneuver.
“We knew it was going to be a shootout to the finish,” said Walker Jr., lauding his team’s performance.
Am Class Competition
The Am class saw James Clay and Charlie Postins in the No. 36 BimmerWorld BMW M4 GT4 EVO display consistent performance amidst a shifting order. Despite stiff competition from the No. 188 Fast Track Racing entry and the No. 72 RAFA Racing Team car, Clay and Postins held on to secure victory.
Postins noted the importance of tire management: “We looked after the tires…during that dog fight, we had tires, and that was awesome. That was a lot of fun.”
Looking Ahead
The Pirelli GT4 America series will continue with the fourth and fifth rounds at the Sebring International Raceway from May 15-18. Live coverage is available on the RACER Network and the RACER+ App.
