PERFORMANCE TECH MOTORSPORTS ROARS TO P3 IN QUALIFYING AHEAD OF ROLEX 24 AT DAYTONA

Thousands of fans flocked to Daytona International Speedway to watch more than 200 drivers take on the historic track. The field was extremely tight in the LMP3 class, with young guns racing against the clock for a chance to clinch pole position on Sunday afternoon. 

Cameron Shields commanded the #38 Performance Tech Motorsports Ligier JS P320 and wasted no time getting up to speed. The Australian driver stormed down the track masterfully, displaying immense precision and pace as he navigated the challenging and demanding road course. As the clock ticked away on the 15-minute qualifying session for the LMP3 class, Shields continued to raise the bar lap after lap. Once the checkered flag waved, he drove away with a lap time 1:43.351, setting the third-fastest time of the session, a mere 0.154 seconds off pole. 

“After our prior two days of practice sessions, we made some significant improvements to the car overnight leading into Sunday’s qualifying session,” explained Shields. “The car was very different from how it felt in practice, so I had to adapt quickly and get used to the changes in the first opening laps. However, it was substantially better and allowed me to push even harder. To come away P3, only a tenth off pole position, is something we’re very happy about as a team. Our pace was consistent across qualifying, so that is already a positive take away and gives us good hopes for the following practice sessions. We’re looking forward to our race next weekend!” 

“This will be my first 24-hour race, I’m really happy to be here,” said Christopher Allen. “We have a good car and a good team, I’m feeling confident. The crew has worked incredibly hard to make sure we’re progressing and heading in the right direction. I’m glad that some setup changes were made as we’re seeing some strong improvements, and I am looking forward to next weekend.” 

Connor Bloum echoed his teammates sentiments; “I’m super excited for the Rolex 24, I think we learned a lot from the practice sessions and have greatly improved the car throughout the course of the Roar Before The 24. The energy within the team is high, and as drivers we’re feeling very solid and focused. We are ready to get out there, I’m stoked for the race!” 

John DeAngelis highlighted all the hard work involved, noting that “the Performance Tech crew did a fantastic job of working out an issue with the car in the practice sessions and getting it ready for qualifying. Cameron drove brilliantly, and was only a few tenths off of pole, so we are all encouraged with the progress made this week and the car that the team has prepared for the Rolex 24. Can’t wait for next weekend!”