Unleashing the Beast: Mastering Risk for Speed at the Grand Prix of Long Beach
The thrill of speed, the precision of skill, and the dance with danger – all come together in the high-stakes world of GT racing at the iconic Grand Prix of Long Beach. Reigning GTD champion Parker Thompson unveils the secret to conquering the demanding street circuit: embracing risk.
In a daring pre-event press conference, Thompson delved into the heart-pounding reality of hurtling through the Long Beach circuit at breakneck speeds. “It’s all about the risk you’re willing to take,” he revealed. “Getting as close as you can to the walls, feeling the adrenaline rush on both entry and exit – that’s the game-changer.”
Drawing a sharp distinction between GTD and GTP fields, Thompson emphasized the critical importance of tightening those corners and brushing elbows with the unforgiving walls. “As the race progresses, the line is determined by how close you dare to tread,” he explained. “At Long Beach, there’s no room for timid maneuvers. You have to push the limits, especially when the track is at its slickest.”
Last year, the 27-year-old dynamo clinched pole position at the event, eventually seizing victory alongside co-driver Ben Barnicoat, the 2023 GTD Pro champion. However, Barnicoat’s recent cycling mishap has cast a shadow over their partnership, with the duo gearing up to face off against a formidable lineup of 16 other GTD juggernauts on April 13.
The #12 Lexus team of Thompson and Jack Hawksworth is poised for a showdown like no other, as they rev their engines to tackle the treacherous twists and turns of the Long Beach street circuit. Brace yourselves for a spectacle of speed, skill, and sheer audacity as these fearless drivers put everything on the line in pursuit of glory.
Buckle up, racing enthusiasts, as the Grand Prix of Long Beach promises to deliver a heart-stopping display of raw talent and unbridled passion on the asphalt. Get ready to witness history in the making as these modern-day gladiators go wheel-to-wheel in a battle where the stakes are sky-high and victory tastes sweeter than ever before.