“This is what we are working toward,” declared Falken Team Manager Derrick Walker, in only his second race running the team. “We just need to step it up a notch to finish on the podium, preferably at the top.”
Running on specially prepared Falken AZENIS RT Slicks, Henzler qualified the newly modified Porsche 5th in GT in practice Friday morning, and during the race, he worked through the crowded field to lead the race in class just after the one-hour mark. After pitting and driver change, Sellers exited the pits in third, but a pack of GT cars with already warm tires were able to run him down before he had a chance to get heat in his, which dropped the team to 7th. Sellers furiously battled back to 4th position in a race marked by several accidents that occurred within the tight confines of the historical street course, and a yellow flag with just under six minutes left ended the battle for a podium position.
“We’re moving forward,” added Kevin Jones, supervisor for Team Falken’s ALMS effort. “Team Falken’s Porsche was the best finishing Porsche in our class. The prep work and practice are definitely paying off.”
Team Falken also had a strong turnout of 125 guests, including employees, Japanese executives, sponsors and partners, who attended the tire manufacturer’s hospitality suite, as well as many fans, who visited the team’s paddock display, which was supported by the presence of the popular Falken Spokesmodels.
“It was a good day for Team Falken, but we can’t take our eyes off the prize,” stated Nick Fousekis, Falken’s Director of Motorsports Marketing and Events. “We’re always gunning for a top finish and we know we have the right mix of technology, teamwork and talent to do it. We’ve got a considerable amount of time to prepare for the next, and we’ll be ready for Lime Rock in July.”
Following the break for the 24 Hours of LeMans, the ALMS starts up again with the Northeast Grand Prix at picturesque Lime Rock Park, July 8-9. TV coverage is slated for ESPN2 at1 p.m. ET, July 10.
To learn more about the 2011 American LeMans Team visit www.wegetyougoing.com
