The North Island Endurance Series returned for Round 2, and the IRC team was ready and eager for the weekend. Although the previous round was challenging, the team prepared thoroughly for a better outcome this time, competing against 27 cars in Taupo.
We welcomed James Parker to the team as he leased the 702 car. His first time racing in the IRC car, he gained confidence and speed as the weekend progressed.
In the qualifiers, all our cars performed well: Rhys Gould secured 7th place, John Goodacre took 2nd, and our new driver, James Parker, placed 8th.
Rhys encountered some trouble with his gearbox running hot on Friday due to an incident in Round 1. However, after replacing the gearbox oil pump on Saturday, he was set for a smoother race. The car’s repairability once again proved beneficial, allowing Gould to compete effectively on Saturday.
The 1-hour race was intense, with fierce competition at the front. James was making good progress towards the leading IRC cars when a spin set him back a lap. Nonetheless, he made a strong recovery and finished 7th overall.
John performed consistently well throughout the 1-hour race, posting impressive times and finishing 3rd overall.
Rhys posted the quickest practice lap times under slippery track conditions and finished 4th overall.
It was a great outcome for the IRC team after a thrilling weekend of racing. We look forward to Round 3.