Returning to a track where she has experience in a range of different Honda-powered machines, Taylor Hagler heads to VIRginia International Raceway for the fourth round of IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge competition this Sunday (TrackPass on NBC Sports Gold, 2:55PM ET).
Hagler will wheel the No. 77 L.A. Honda World Honda Civic Type R TCR around the rural Virginia track as she and co-driver Ryan Eversley look to build momentum in the IMSA standings.
Between simulator training and on-track test days, the Honda development driver is well-prepared heading into the VIR race weekend. Last year, Hagler made two starts at the 3.27-mile course in TC America TCA competition with a best finish of fourth place in her Honda Civic Si.
“VIR is a flowing track that makes it a fun course to drive,” said Hagler. “There are a few corners on the back side that have been difficult spots for me in the past but having been able to test there a couple months ago, I learned how to approach those in the Honda Civic Type R TCR. Using that knowledge and the cornering strength of our Civic, gaining those extra tenths of a second will be beneficial for the end result.”
The 24-year-old IMSA rookie has shown progress as she continues to clock in more track time onboard the Honda Civic Type R TCR. In her most recent IMPC outing at Road America, Hagler secured her first top ten finish and is now looking to build on those results.
“I am looking forward to getting behind the wheel of the No. 77 Honda Civic Type R TCR this weekend at VIR,” said Hagler. “It’s a track that I’m familiar with, so my goal is to get up to speed quickly so that Ryan (Eversley) and I can work on moving through the field. My confidence is high going into the weekend and I am looking forward to seeing what we can do in the No. 77 L.A. Honda World Honda Civic Type R TCR.”
Hagler’s co-driver, Eversley has served as a valuable resource for Hagler as she continues to grow her professional racing career. Both drivers are hopeful heading into the race weekend.
“It’s no secret that the No. 77 car is due for some good luck and Taylor and I are hopeful that this weekend at VIR we can find some,” said Eversley. “VIR is my favorite track and we actually tested there recently to get Taylor some more seat time so we have a good baseline on setup and I think we’ll be able to finally get a solid result for the L.A. Honda World team.”
The Virginia Is For Racing Lovers Grand Prix will go green Sunday, August 23rd at 2:55PM ET. Live streaming will be available on TrackPass on NBC Sports Gold.
Weekend Schedule
Friday, August 21st
Practice 1 – 4:15-5:15PM
Saturday, August 22nd
Practice 2 – 9:35-10:35AM
Sunday, August 23rd
Qualifying – 8:35-8:50AM
Race – 2:55-4:55PM
