Lewis to Sub for Injured Hand at Gradient for Watkins Glen

Photo: Gradient Racing

Corey Lewis has been drafted back into Gradient Racing’s Ford Mustang GT3 EVO for this weekend’s Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen, subbing for the injured Joey Hand, who has been ruled out due to a karting injury.

Hand, who has served as one of the team’s two dedicated IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup drivers, suffered a broken pelvis in an accident.

“I’m so bummed to not be able to race at Watkins Glen,” he said. “Unfortunately, I suffered a broken pelvis in an accident while training in my kart some weeks ago.

“It’s tough to miss this one for so many reasons, but mainly because I love this track and I love driving with Gradient Racing.

“I look forward to fully recovering and being back in action with the team for Road America. I’ll be watching and cheering from home.”

Lewis has been serving as the team’s driver for the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship sprint rounds, in addition to opening the season in the Rolex 24 at Daytona as the team’s fourth pilot.

“First and foremost, I want to wish Joey a full and speedy recovery,” said Lewis. “While I certainly wish the circumstances were different, I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity to step in and join Till and Jake for the Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen.

“Watkins Glen is a track that holds a special place for my family and me, and it’s always exciting to return to such an iconic venue.

“I’m looking forward to working alongside Till, Jake, and the entire team at Gradient Racing. It’s a fantastic opportunity, and I’m eager to get up to speed, contribute wherever I can, and help deliver a strong result for the team this weekend.”

Lewis will team up with full season racer Jake Walker and Till Bechtolsheimer, who is the team’s second Endurance Cup driver.

The team will be looking to build on from a sixth place GTD class finish in last year’s Watkins Glen race.

Source: Sports Car 365