ALTON, VA (Saturday, August 24, 2024) – The home track at VIR was not advantageous for Team TGM in today’s IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge Virginia is for Racing Lovers Grand Prix.
Going into the weekend, Matt Plumb held a 200-point lead in the overall driver and team championships, however, an incident at midway in the 2-hour race left the Aston Martin Vantage with extensive damage.
Co-driver Paul Holton had a fairly seamless first half of the race, starting in fourth position and handing the car over to Plumb. Unfortunately, Plumb came together with another Aston Martin, and the subsequent damage forced the Team TGM crew back to the paddock for repairs.
Plumb would eventually rejoin the race several laps down but was able to sustain IMSA’s official minimum race pace. With other cars dropping out, the No 46 car finished in 15th position. Plumb holds onto the lead in the championship with two races remaining in the season, however with a slim 30-point lead.
The sister No. 64 car finished just behind in 16th position.
“For all that we couldn’t control today, we did ok with the things we could. I had a fairly good stint, but we struggled with the car late in the race,” said team owner Ted Giovanis.
“The team overcame many challenges throughout the weekend, and I’m very proud of everyone for their extra effort, especially in getting Matt back out on the track for those all-important points."
“Today might not have been our day. However, we still have two chances to close this thing out. We’ll regroup and go to Indy where we ran well last year. Then it’s onto Road Atlanta which is our race shop neighbor, so truly our home track and everyone’s favorite."
“Hugh and I are so happy to have clinched the Bronze Cup championship at the last race and have that secure. Our efforts are all on the 46 car and trying to clinch the overall driver and team championships. Although the margin may have shrunk, we’re still leading and plan to stay there."
“On a weekend when we’ve launched the #DrivingResearch campaign I wish we had done better on track. However, I’m proud of what our research group has done to impact cancer and the team will continue to promote the platform.”
Next up for Team TGM is Indianapolis Motor Speedway 120, September 21st.
Ted Giovanis - “It was a rough day, but there were positives. I drove a solid stint, with race times better than qualifying, and handed the car off in good shape. Despite car issues, we helped the 46 car recover to score crucial points. Now, we regroup and focus on Indy.”
Paul Holton - “VIR was a tough, character-building day. The 46 car was taken out on a restart, and the 64 car had late issues but still won the Bronze category. This team is performing at a high level, and I’m excited for what’s ahead. Indy is next, and we’ll be ready.”
