Still relishing in their second podium of the year just one week ago, Silicon Tech / Dempsey Racing heads to this weekend’s VIR 240 with a renewed sense of momentum and potential.
As the penultimate round of the American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patrón championship, the team heads to the classic Virginia International Raceway, a track known for its constant series of corners and vintage appeal.
While this is the final sprint-race of the 2012 season, it is actually the first time the series has ever raced at the circuit in Alton, Virginia. Hoping to gain some advantage in the Prototype Challenge (PC) class, it may be the first visit for many series teams and drivers, however both STR drivers and the Dempsey team have a lot of experience at the track.
Driver Duncan Ende has driven at the 3.27-mile circuit several times in another series since 2007, while co-driver Henri Richard raced at the circuit last year, which is actually where he had his first “run in” with Dempsey Racing Co-Owner Patrick Dempsey.
“You could say the beginning of Silicon Tech and Dempsey Racing started at VIR,” stated Richard. “Patrick and I actually met while both of our cars were stuck in the Turn 3 gravel trap during practice, and I guess the rest is history! The track is a lot of fun for a driver. The corners really flow in to one another, and the feel of the circuit is truly a classic.”
Looking to drive the circuit for the first time in a prototype, Duncan Ende is hoping his prior track experience can prove valuable during the race.
“I’m really excited to try this track with a high downforce car,” explained Ende. “I’ve had a lot of laps here in GT-style racing, but with the elevation changes and high speed corners, this should be a whole new experience in the PC.”
As a four-hour race, patience will once again prove critical for the entire team. With attrition a key component for a four-hour race, the team hopes to run a clean and consistent pace in their quest for another podium and their sixth consecutive top-five finish.
Practice begins on Thursday, September 13, with the race taking place on Saturday, September 16. Live streaming of the race can be found on ESPN3.com at 2:15PM ET, or you can see the race on television the following day, September 17, on ESPN2 at 5PM ET.
Source : Silicon Tech Dempsey Racing