Bowmanville, Ontario – July 14, 2024 – Thaze Competition with the Junaid Family Foundation etched their name into the IMSA VP Racing Challenge history books with a thrilling victory at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park. The weekend was a rollercoaster of emotions, marked by both adversity and triumph.
The team entered the event with high hopes, fielding two Mercedes-AMG GT4 cars for drivers Eddie Killeen and Josh Green. Unfortunately, the first race took a dramatic turn when Killeen was involved in a significant incident. Thanks to the swift and professional response of the IMSA safety crew and medical team, Killeen was transported to a local hospital for evaluation and subsequently released.
Josh Green managed to salvage some positive momentum from the challenging day by securing a third-place finish in the same race.
With Killeen sidelined for the second race, all eyes were on Green to carry the team’s hopes. The early stages of the race proved challenging as Green struggled to find his rhythm. A mandatory pit stop for rain tires, coupled with the onset of rain, marked a turning point. Green’s exceptional wet weather skills shone through as he carved his way through the field, ultimately seizing the lead with just two laps remaining. Crossing the finish line in first place marked a historic moment for Thaze Competition, securing their first-ever IMSA victory.
The win was made even sweeter by the presence of Ansir Junaid and other representatives of the Junaid Family Foundation. Junaid was on hand to witness the team’s triumph firsthand and celebrate the partnership between Thaze Competition and the Foundation.
Quotes:
Ansir Junaid, Chairman and Trustee, Junaid Family Foundation: “Seeing Josh cross the finish line in first place was an incredible moment. This victory not only highlights the talent and dedication of the Thaze Competition team but also showcases the power of sports to inspire and unite people. Motorsports provides a unique platform for us to raise awareness of the Junaid Family Foundation’s mission to empower vulnerable populations around the world.”
Josh Green, Driver (#78): “This is a dream come true. The win means everything to me and the team. Having Junaid and the JFF team here to share this moment is truly special. The conditions were challenging, but I was able to capitalize on the rain and bring home the victory. I’m incredibly grateful for the team’s hard work and support.”
Eddie Killeen, Driver (#37): “I’m incredibly grateful for the care I received from the IMSA safety crew and medical team. Their professionalism and quick response made all the difference. While I’m disappointed to miss the second race, I’m thrilled for Josh and the team’s victory. I look forward to returning to the car soon.”
Faisal Ahmad, Co-Team Principal: “This victory, with JFF on hand to celebrate, is a testament to the power of partnership. It’s a defining moment for Thaze Competition. We’re grateful for the support of our fans and partners, and we dedicate this win to Eddie, who is a valued member of our team.”
Brian Makse, Co-Team Principal: “This weekend was a mix of highs and lows. The accident involving Eddie was a huge shock, but we’re relieved he’s okay. Josh’s victory, with the JFF team here to witness it, makes it even more special. This is a defining moment for Thaze Competition.”
