The adrenaline-pumping Super Lap Battle at the Circuit of The Americas (COTA) on March 11-12, 2023 isn’t just any racing event; it’s the ultimate time attack challenge where precision, speed, and sheer driving skill collide on one of the most exhilarating tracks in the United States.
COTA is a 3.41-mile track with 20 turns, challenging the best drivers.
It’s a place where the roar of engines and the screech of tires create a symphony for motorsport enthusiasts. And for those who can’t resist the allure of speed and competition, the Super Lap Battle is the event to witness.
The event is packed with action, featuring the Gridlife Touring Cup (GLTC), Lone Star Drift demos, ride-alongs, and the Just/Vibes car show. It’s a full-throttle weekend where the racing community comes together to celebrate their passion for high-speed performance.
Drivers and teams are busy in the paddock, making last-minute adjustments, running through tech inspections, and strategizing for the practice sessions. The atmosphere is electric, with the sound of turbochargers spooling and the smell of race fuel in the air.
One of the stars of the show is the 1995 Eagle Talon TSi AWD, a manual road race build that has undergone a transformation since its last appearance. Its driver, a seasoned contributor from Aiken, South Carolina, shares his journey leading up to this year’s event. After a challenging Super Lap Battle in the previous year, where unforeseen issues plagued the car, the team has been hard at work making improvements.
The Talon’s practice runs were a testament to the team’s dedication. Despite having to remove the side skirts, barge boards, and strakes due to excessive aero causing the car to bottom out, the vehicle was on rails. The driver focused on learning the track, breaking it into sections, and pushing for quicker lap times.
In high-stakes racing, success is never easy.
On Saturday, the Talon faced power issues, a tow back to the pits, and a race against time to diagnose and fix the problem. The culprit? A bolt on the intake cam gear had backed out, leading to a cascade of issues. But thanks to the incredible support from the local DSM community, the team was able to source parts and work through the night to get the car back in fighting shape.
Sunday brought new challenges, with power steering issues and overheating forcing the driver to pace himself. The final blow came when the car refused to go into gear, marking the end of a weekend filled with highs and lows. Yet, the spirit of the team remained unbroken, with sights already set on the next year’s event.
As we look forward to the Super Lap Battle at COTA, it’s not just about the competition; it’s about the community. It’s about the shared experiences, the triumphs, and the setbacks. It’s about the innovation, like the installation of an EPS column from a Nissan Versa to improve steering on the Talon, showcasing the ingenuity that goes into preparing for such an event.
For those attending, it’s a chance to witness the Lone Star Drift in action, feel the excitement of the GLTC races, and marvel at the automotive beauties at the Just/Vibes car show. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of time attack racing, where every second shaved off a lap time is a victory in itself.
Don’t forget the Circuit of The Americas, a gem in American motorsports.
With its iconic uphill run to Turn 1 and the sweeping vistas of the Texas Hill Country, COTA provides a backdrop like no other. It’s a track that has seen the likes of Formula 1 and MotoGP, and now plays host to the bravest time attackers in the land.
As the Super Lap Battle draws near, the excitement builds. Whether you’re a seasoned race-goer or a newcomer to the world of motorsports, this event promises to deliver an unforgettable experience. So grab your spectator tickets, register for the car show, and join us at COTA for a weekend of speed, skill, and the relentless pursuit of the perfect lap.
The Super Lap Battle at COTA is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of automotive culture, a testament to the relentless spirit of competition, and a gathering of a community united by the love of speed. It’s where legends are made, and racing dreams come to life. Don’t miss it. Buckle up, it’s going to be one heck of a ride!
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Super Lap Battle — ATX FYI
Road Race Build – Super Lap Battle Cota bound
Circuit of The Americas
