Photography by Chuck Andersen.
The 2024 HSR Sebring Classic 12 Hour, Pistons & Props, delivered an adrenaline-packed weekend of firsts, fierce competition, and photo-finish drama at Sebring International Raceway. With nine hours of racing on Saturday and three more on Sunday, this homage to the legendary 12 Hours of Sebring crowned four first-time champions across Run Groups A, B, C, and D—marking the first clean sweep of fresh winners in six years.
A/B Run Group: Chevron Dominance and Porsche Precision
In the combined A and B race, it was a weekend of near-flawless execution. John Emberson and racing legend Nigel Greensall piloted their 1970 Chevron B19 to a commanding victory in Group A, despite early mechanical woes. The Foxcraft Racing team didn’t just win; they dominated, clinching the overall combined A/B victory by a full lap.
Meanwhile, Kenneth McKinnon, alongside teammates Mike Bruns and Charles Espenlaub, finally nabbed their first Group B win with Predator Racing’s 1972 Porsche 911 RSR. Consistent speed and strategy earned them a decisive lead, cementing their place at the top of the A/B standings.
Group C: A Record-Setting Upset
Over in Group C, Bob Neapole and Guy Cosmo pulled off a masterclass performance in their Acura ARX-05, overcoming formidable competition to claim victory. Their precision driving held off Pierce Marshall’s Cadillac DPi team, who were chasing an unprecedented season sweep. The Acura crew sealed the deal with less than a minute to spare, proving that endurance racing is as much about brains as it is about speed.
Group D: High Drama and Heartbreak
The closest battle of the weekend unfolded in Group D. British father-son duo Mike and Andrew Jordan looked set to clinch victory with their Porsche 997.2 GT3 Cup. However, a late-race tire blowout handed the win to the relentless Fortress Stabilization team, with Ed Wheatley and Jimmy Llibre capitalizing on the opportunity to snatch the trophy in their Porsche 991 GT3 Cup.
Pistons, Props, and Vintage Cool
The event wasn’t just about the cars. Vintage aircraft, like the battle-scarred 1968 Cessna O2A affectionately called “Oscar Deuce,” added a nostalgic aviation flair. Pilots and racers exchanged “Best in Show” awards, with Olthoff Racing’s GT40 and the iconic Cessna earning top honors.
A Timely Victory
The 2024 HSR Classic 12 Hour at Sebring was a thrilling blend of speed, strategy, and camaraderie, showcasing why this historic event remains a fan favorite. Here’s to more firsts, dramatic finishes, and unforgettable moments in the years ahead!
2024 HSR Classic 12 Hour Photo Gallery
