Just one week ago, Alec Udell and the entire Global Motorsports Group (GMG) team were unsure if they’d even make it to this weekend’s MOMO Grand Prix at Barber Motorsports Park presented by Porsche. After today’s sixth round of the Pirelli World Challenge, however, the entire organization was vindicated in their efforts, with Udell leading for much of the race and ultimately taking second. James Sofronas would also continue strong form en route to another top-10 finish in the GT class.

“I’m very happy to reward everyone on the team with a podium today, it was a great race,” stated Udell. “The car turned its first laps since the accident yesterday, and we had no idea what to expect. Luckily, we’ve had good form since the car rolled out and it’s a fantastic testament to the team. Thanks to everyone for making this happen and hopefully we can continue this form tomorrow.”

Following a disastrous accident that took the No. 17 Porsche 911 GT3 Cup 991 out of contention in St. Petersburg, the 19-year-old had been forced to sit out the most recent two rounds of competition while his machine underwent repairs. Just barely making yesterday’s first official practice session, the Texas native was immediately on form, pacing within the top three of the GT Cup class and following that up with a front row qualifying effort.

Getting a strong run during the opening lap, Udell immediately took to the lead as the field headed into the first turn. Breaking away with championship leader Colin Thompson in their own race, Udell would hold the lead throughout much of the event, proving both driver and machine had completely returned to form.

Unfortunately, with just under 20 minutes to go, Thompson would successfully complete a pass over the final two turns, barely getting in front of Alec and able to hold him behind for the remainder of the race.

Of the three races that Udell has completed, Alec has been able to continue his podium streak, taking either second or third in all events.

In the GT class, team owner and driver James Sofronas was able to take yet another top ten. Driving the No. 14 Spyder / The Thermal Club / Audi R8 LMS ultra, the Villa Park, California resident had an eventful race of his own, advancing six positions over the course of the event. Engaged in a spirited series of battles with both of the Acura TLX-GT’s, James once again drove a steady mix of patience and aggression to take 10th, his third straight top-10 of the season.

“It’s great to see Alec back on track,” stated Sofronas. “For a young guy he has shown remarkable patience and maturity during what has been a very trying time, and it’s thrilling to see him take another podium! It’s great for both him and the team, hopefully tomorrow will be even better. For the Audi, we enjoyed a nice run which will suit us well for tomorrow’s race. There was non-stop action throughout the event for me, and I particularly enjoyed the wheel-to-wheel competition with the Acura contingent. This is a great circuit for us and we’ve learned a lot to set us up for a great race two.”

As part of another double-header weekend, Sunday’s round will take place at 10:55 AM CDT, with live coverage available at world-challengetv.c