Meyer Shank Racing’s Rolex 24 Comeback: Triumph in Second Place
The Acura Meyer Shank Racing team’s triumphant return to the IMSA GTP realm at the 2025 Rolex 24 Hours may not have culminated in the fairy-tale victory they envisioned, but securing a hard-fought second place in the No. 60 Acura ARX-06 was a testament to their resilience and skill. A mere 1.3 seconds behind the winning Penske Porsche, the team left Daytona with their heads held high after an intense battle on the track.
The journey to the 2025 season opener was rife with challenges for the Ohio-based outfit, following a year-long hiatus from their IMSA program. With an expanded two-car effort, a revamped driver lineup, and the daunting prospect of the prestigious 24-hour race, Meyer Shank Racing was eager to make a statement. The palpable sense of anticipation was evident even before the Roar Before The 24 test commenced, with team owner Mike Shank expressing unwavering confidence in their podium potential. “We expect to come back on the podium,” he boldly proclaimed. “Maybe we don’t win, but there’s no reason we shouldn’t be challenging for the podium places.”
Amidst 24 hours of relentless racing and 781 laps around the iconic Daytona International Speedway, the team’s mettle was truly tested. Tom Blomqvist, the sole driver on the lead lap not clad in Porsche Penske gear, delivered a masterful performance in the final stretch. Pushing himself and his Acura to the limit, Blomqvist staged a thrilling chase in pursuit of the lead car, ultimately settling for a well-deserved second place. Despite falling short of victory, his unwavering determination and skill left a lasting impression on the Daytona paddock.
Reflecting on his team’s performance, Blomqvist acknowledged the challenges they faced throughout the grueling race. “We struggled a lot for pace,” he confessed. “The Porsches were extremely strong, and we had difficulty maintaining traction and keeping up with their pace.” However, a remarkable resurgence in the final stint showcased the No. 60 Acura’s potential, underscoring their unwavering spirit and competitive drive.
While the No. 60 car basked in the glory of a podium finish, the No. 93 car encountered a different fate, finishing eighth in class due to a rear suspension failure. Despite this setback, the decision to field two cars paid dividends for Acura Meyer Shank Racing, offering them additional opportunities to shine on the track. Driver Colin Braun emphasized the team’s collective effort and determination, highlighting the room for growth and improvement in the races ahead.
As the dust settled on their Rolex 24 comeback, Meyer Shank Racing emerged stronger and more determined than ever. Blomqvist encapsulated the team’s sentiment, expressing gratitude for their hard-fought second-place finish. “We’re super happy with second,” he remarked. “At one point, we thought it was going to be a real long day.” The journey to victory may have been cut short, but in the realm of motorsport, triumph is often found in the pursuit of excellence, and Meyer Shank Racing’s relentless pursuit of success is a testament to their unwavering spirit and resilience.
