Courtney Crone: An unforgettable racing season
As I sit right down to replicate on the whirlwind of a yr I’ve had on the planet of motorsports, one phrase involves thoughts: gratitude. 2023 has been nothing in need of spectacular, full of childhood goals realized, podium triumphs, and the fun of racing on either side of the Atlantic.
This yr, my journey took off in a means I might have solely imagined. Successful the IMSA Numerous Driver Growth Scholarship was a game-changer. It was not only a monetary increase, however a pivotal second in my racing profession. Realizing that I might be driving the enduring Pink Dragon was like stepping right into a cherished childhood dream. It’s the form of alternative each aspiring racer goals of, and I’m grateful past phrases.
The Pink Dragon has not disenchanted this yr. All through the season, the quantity of assist the Pink Dragon has obtained from followers throughout the U.S. is outstanding. There’s simply one thing about bringing again a automotive with that a lot nostalgia to IMSA which you could’t ignore. Or possibly it’s the brilliant crimson paint. With the assist of 47 Motorsports, I’ve been in a position to obtain my greatest season within the LMP3 but, with 4 podium finishes at a number of the most legendary tracks in North America. From the excessive banks of Daytona to the technical challenges of Canadian Tire Motorsports Park, the historic Lime Rock Park, and the scenic VIRginia Worldwide Raceway, every podium was a testomony to teamwork, perseverance, and an incredible assist system. With the brand new VP SportsCar Problem single-driver format, I’ve had the possibility to showcase my particular person outcomes and with the added problem of GT4 vehicles within the combine, it has saved all of the races thrilling and unpredictable to the top. And positively has pushed me to new limits.
However maybe probably the most eye-opening expertise of all was my European racing journey. It’s a world of racing I by no means thought I might have the privilege to expertise. After Daytona, I obtained a name from Gebhardt Motorsports to race their LMP3 automotive within the German Prototype Cup sequence (above). What started as a progressive season with the Ginetta chassis at tracks like Hockenheimring and Zandvoort, simply to call simply two of the legendary circuits we visited, changed into a stealthy change to the Duqueine chassis for my last race of the yr with them. The spotlight? Constantly showcasing high 5 tempo all through the final race weekend on the TT Circuit Assen. Racing for Mr. Gebhardt and staff this yr was a privilege, realizing the wealthy historical past they’ve carved in IMSA and Group C racing.
To sum up, 2023 has marked a yr of non-public progress and self-discovery. From the picturesque circuits to the passionate followers, each second has felt like a dream come true. This yr has expanded my horizons and given me a newfound appreciation for the worldwide motorsport group.
Final however definitely not least, I wish to specific my heartfelt gratitude to my sponsors. Bob and Linda Stallings, Myobrace, IMSA, The Morgan Group, Frontier Hearth Safety, and Supplier Science – your unwavering assist has made this season attainable. You believed in me when it mattered most, and I’m honored to symbolize you on and off the monitor.
As this unimaginable season is coming to a detailed, I look forward with anticipation and pleasure for my final race of the season at Street Atlanta and past. The journey continues, and there are extra goals to chase, podiums to overcome, and followers to encourage. Thanks to everybody who has been a part of this outstanding journey. Right here’s to the longer term and the adventures it holds!
