
NLS Racing #977 VIR24 Race Report: A Test of Endurance
After a disappointing race at NCM, the NLS Racing team was determined to conquer the challenging VIR24. We meticulously prepared the car, replacing and stocking up on spare parts, leaving no component unaddressed. The test day began with a minor setback – two flat tires in the first two sessions due to a faulty valve stem. However, a quick fix resolved the issue, and our drivers successfully rotated through the remaining test sessions.
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Race day saw us starting in the mid-to-rear of the pack. We adopted a patient strategy, gradually advancing to 6th position by the first pit stop. After the pit stop, we rejoined the race in 7th. Unfortunately, our progress was cut short by an incident after turn 5, resulting in contact with the wall. Despite the impact, our well-built car held up, and after a swift check in the pits, we were back on track. Our third driver took the wheel, and all seemed well until disaster struck near the top of the esses. The right rear knuckle failed, shearing off the lower ball joint mount and sending our driver into a spin. Miraculously, he avoided further contact and limped the car back to the pits. Reviewing the race logs, we discovered two black flags were issued for a single incident due to the extensive spin. True to our preparations, we had a spare for everything. However, the repair cost us 45-50 minutes, forcing us to play catch-up.
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With a long race ahead, we focused on consistent lap times and steadily climbed back through the ranks. By around 4 a.m., we had fought our way from 32nd to 8th overall. During the early morning hours, we experienced some minor wheel-to-wheel contact, prompting a pit stop for a quick toe adjustment. Shortly after rejoining the race, our driver reported shifting problems, with the car stuck in gear. We made the difficult decision to retire the car at that point. Whether it was too late or too early, we were simply too hot and too tired to continue. VIR24 had claimed another victim.
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Congratulations to all the finishers, especially the winners and podium finishers. This race is a true test of endurance. We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who supported us: our families, friends, children, Champcar, corner workers, volunteers, and all the dedicated individuals who make events like this possible. Thank you! We'll be back on the track soon.



