Credit: Mika Pietrus / © The rise of Era Motorsport to contention for victory in the LMP2 category at the 12 Hours of Sebring was thanks to the impeccable timing of their last pit stop, orchestrated by race engineers Scott Besst and Nico Brisseau.
Connor Zilisch, Dwight Merriman, and Ryan Dalziel emerged as the winners of the 12 Hours of Sebring, following their triumph at the 24 Hours of Daytona in January.
Notably, the team moved into contention for victory during the final hour of the race, while their competitors spent more time leading the LMP2 field earlier on.
“It’s a privilege for the team to have faith in me and give me the opportunity to show my skills at the end,” said Zilisch after crossing the finish line in car #18.
“Scott [Besst] and Nico [Brisseau] made excellent strategic decisions throughout the day.”
During the tenth hour of the race, GTP leader Frederic Makowiecki [#6 Porsche Penske] suffered a left rear tire puncture in front of car #18, causing him to go off track.
The debris from the incident blocked the radiators of car #18, prompting Era Motorsport to make an early pit stop to clear the blockage and prevent engine overheating. This setback dropped them from first to tenth position.
Two of the twelve caution phases occurred in the final hour, with a passing procedure implemented to keep the LMP2 competitors close to each other.
The final pit stop in the LMP2 class required precise timing, resulting in Era Motorsport jumping from eighth position to the lead, which Zilisch successfully defended.
“It was extremely challenging to pass out there,” explained Zilisch.
“Basically, whoever could secure the position on track and take the lead would end up winning.”
“With about an hour remaining, we were all running in a group. I think I was in seventh place.”
“I knew I wouldn’t be able to pass them, so I started saving fuel, waiting for the last pit stop.”
“I saved enough to regain the lead when I came back.”
The team owner, Kyle Tilley, added: “… The strategy devised by Scott [Besst] and Nico [Brisseau] was flawless. It was very exciting to be part of this strategic decision and witness its unfolding.”
“But on a more serious note, this is Dwight’s last year competing with the LMP2 car – at least in the USA – so this achievement showcases Era Motorsport as one of the top LMP2 teams in the world, which will attract potential amateur drivers who want to compete…”
