Harrisonville’s PF Racing had a weekend of high and lows as the team could have finished on the VP Racing Stay Frosty podium 240, but had to settle for P8 at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta. The #40 Ford Mustang, driven by James Pesek and Chad McCumbee, was flawless throughout the weekend and performed very well on the 2.54 miles Georgia track.
The team started the event in full force by clinching a Top 10 in the first practice session, and a 5th place in the second practice. James Pesek then qualified the car in 10th place late Saturday night, scoring his best qualifying result so far. He was moved up on the starting grid in 9th place as a car in front got disqualified.
The 4-hour VP Racing Stay Frosty 240 was not an easy race as the exceptionally hot weather played a role in the team’s strategy. With the car lacking an AC system, drivers needed to switch more often than not to ensure they would keep cool.
James Pesek took the start of the race and gained a place right away. He had an excellent stint, battling with other drivers to keep his spot while managing the car. Chad McCumbee took over at about an hour in the race and pulled an incredible stint, moving up the car in the top 5.
James Pesek then jumped in the Ford Mustang for a short stint. A lot happened in the second hour of the race as Chad grabbed second place, chasing down the leader. With about an hour left to the clock, Pesek went back on track and took the race’s last restart. As the driver got caught up in traffic, he lost a few positions.
Chad then got in the car for his last stint and made his way up the field to 8th place, giving PF Racing their best IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge finish of the season.
“The entire PF Racing team did an amazing job this weekend, which resulted in a Top 10 finish,” said McCumbee. “We were in the mix the entire event and even got close to the lead once. I was really impressed with James during qualifying and with his general progression throughout the weekend. Hopefully, we gain momentum as a team from this event and carry it out to Mid-Ohio.”
James Pesek echoed, “I am really happy with my qualifying pace; I showed that I can run in the Top 10 given a decent BoP. There was a lot of strategy change during the 4-hour race, and I wish I had had a better restart in my last stint, but I am very proud of the team’s effort this weekend; everything was done flawlessly.”
PF Racing’s next event will be at Mid-Ohio, September 24 to 27.
