Sebring, Florida. (March 18, 2024) — Following an intense showdown at the Sebring International Raceway, CarBahn Peregrine Racing experienced another rollercoaster of emotions in the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge Alan Jay Automotive Network 120 race.

Starting from the 4th row after a strong qualifying performance that landed them in 8th place, the No. 39 Accel / Menlo BMW M4 GT4, driven by Sean McAlister and Jeff Westphal, showcased resilience and strategy throughout the race. With clean runs and impeccable pit stops, the team steadily climbed up the ranks, making their way to 4th place with only 2 laps remaining.

However, as the race entered its crucial final moments, the team faced a devastating setback. An ill-timed maneuver by the No. 69 Motorsports In Action McLaren Artura GT4, which incurred a subsequent penalty, saw it aggressively attempt to overtake Westphal’s No. 39 CarBahn Motorsports BMW M4 GT4 at Turn 3. This contact caused the No. 39 to spin out, dashing the team’s hopes of reaching the podium and resulting in a disappointing 9th place finish.

Despite the disappointment, Jeff Westphal’s stellar performance shone through with the second-best sector 1 time and the fastest time for sector 3, securing the team’s runner up spot in the ideal lap chart.

Looking ahead, CarBahn Peregrine Racing remains undeterred as they prepare for their next challenge. On May 11, the team will embark on a two-hour battle at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, eager to bounce back and reclaim their position at the forefront of the competition.

Jeff Westphal – driver of the No. 39 Accel / Menlo BMW M4 GT4

“A tough ending to an otherwise extremely positive day for the No. 39 Carbahn Peregrine Racing BMW M4. We had great pace on a single lap in the heat of the Florida sun, as well as a good long run average.

However some over zealous decisions by many of our competitors found our rear bumper in multiple ways and angles, one of which took me out of a fight for 2nd. I was able to get moving again in P10 and make it back up to P9 by the checkered, but a disappointment as a podium was within reach.

I would like to highlight the incredible job done by my team, and team mate this past weekend. We were firing on all cylinders as a group!”

Sean McAlister – driver of the No. 39 Accel / Menlo BMW M4 GT4

“Sebring was a tough one. We struggled with an unfavorable balance of power for the weekend which gave us more weight and less power compared to Daytona, while most of the other manufacturers got weight reduced and power increased. I did what I could in qualifying to put us in P8 to start the race.

The team gave Jeff and I an amazing race car to drive in order to be consistent, as that would be our only chances at doing well in the race. I was able to move the car up through the field a few positions while on track. After I handed it off to Jeff, he also did a great job moving the car through the field but unfortunately we got spun by a low percentage move while battling for a podium position with only a few laps to go, resulting in us finishing 9th.

Even though it wasn’t the result we wanted, it was important to get some points on the board for the championship. Can’t wait for Laguna Seca in a few weeks!”

Sameer Gandhi – team co-owner

“While Sebring brought moments of disappointment, it also showcased the incredible determination and skill of our drivers, Sean McAlister and Jeff Westphal. Despite facing setbacks beyond their control, they demonstrated unwavering commitment and resilience, pushing the No. 39 Accel / Menlo BMW M4 GT4 to its limits.

We acknowledge the outstanding effort put forth by every member of our team, from the drivers to the crew, whose dedication and hard work are the backbone of our success.

As we look forward to the upcoming race at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, we remain focused and determined to bounce back stronger than ever. Our sights are set on reclaiming our position at the forefront of the competition, and I have full confidence in the ability of our team to rise to the challenge.”