Yahoo Autos Behind The Scenes Of IMSA's Petit Le Mans With Gradient Racing
This past weekend saw the 2023 IMSA season wrap up at Road Atlanta. The 10-hour Petit Le Mans endurance event is a grueling race that can test the mettle of even the most composed teams — and this year, I had the opportunity to shadow Gradient Racing. This Texas-based team competes in the GTD class behind the wheel of an Acura NSX GT3, and while they weren’t competing for a Championship, the team composed of Katherine Legge, Sheena Monk, and Marc Miller still aimed to finish as well as possible to end the season on a high.
I was with the team throughout the weekend, whether that meant sitting in the hauler between sessions or standing in the pits during the race. Viewers at home don’t often get a full sense of just what it’s like to be one of these teams competing for glory; this is your chance to get a feel for what it’s like to race at PLM.
Read more
Will and Jada's Kids Are Reportedly Feeling Very Bad for Dad Right Now
Final Fantasy VII’s Most Iconic Flashback Is Better Than Ever
Thursday dawned damp and cool in Braselton, Georgia; most of the weekend would be plagued by thick clouds and the occasional burst of rain showers.
Getting To Work
Three different practice sessions took place for the IMSA teams on Thursday, which meant that Gradient Racing had arrived early to make sure the Acura was in fine shape.
In The Pits
The pit lane at Road America needed to accommodate 52 entries, which meant that each team was fairly cramped.
Stop And Go
Autographs
Just before qualifying comes an hour-long autograph session; fans are invited to head to the paddock to secure signatures of their favorite racers.
And: Media Obligations
From the autograph session to interviews, Sheena Monk remains a consummate professional.
Suiting Up
Katherine Legge of Gradient Racing suits up to qualify the Acura.
Watching And Waiting
Crew members look on as Legge qualifies; the GTD and GTD Pro classes were the first on track for IMSA qualifying, which meant they dealt with damp conditions.
Back To The Garage
After qualifying, the team took the car apart to ensure it would be cleaned and ready for race day.
On The Grid
The Gradient Racing Acura sits on the grid during the pre-race fan grid walk.
In The Pits
Meanwhile, Monk and Legge debrief in the pit lane.
Photo Op
