TX2K24 Stick-Shift Class Recap
Posted by #TeamTick on 22nd Mar 2024
The TX2K24 Stick Shift class was a thrilling showcase of manual transmission mastery and raw speed, culminating in a series of dramatic races that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Jonathan Atkins, driving the formidable Grubbworm, made a spectacular run, clocking a 6.869 at 211.45mph, overshadowing Ryan Pederson's impressive 6.996 at 199.21mph. A personal best for Pederson, securing the unofficial record for the fastest C6 with an Independent Rear Suspension. His achievement in breaking into the 6-second club during qualifying was bittersweet, as it appeared to come at the cost of engine damage.
Nick Cole-Mann emerged as the top qualifier with a blistering 6.81 at 212 mph, narrowly besting Atkins’ 6.84 at 214 mph. Despite spinning during his round one bye, Cole-Mann managed to regain control and achieve 213 mph, advancing to Round 2.
Joel Grannas and Myles Kerr delivered memorable performances, with Grannas moving on to round 2 with a 7.34 at 195 mph against Kerr’s 7.500 at 195 mph, setting a new personal best and a world record for the Integra.
Round 2 saw Perez and Sean Madden battling it out, with Madden advancing to the semifinals with a 7.91 at 175 mph. Meanwhile, Cole-Mann set the lowest ET for the Stick Shift class that weekend with a staggering 6.77 at 209 mph, defeating Joel Grannas.
Atkins, benefiting from a bye but spinning on the shift, advanced to the semifinals, setting the stage for high-stakes matchups. Cole-Mann and Sean Madden faced off in a spin-filled semifinal, with Cole-Mann advancing to the final. Atkins squared off against Aaron Lopez, securing his spot in the finals with a 6.94 at 208 mph.
The final round was a nail-biter, featuring Cole-Mann versus Atkins. A heart-stopping moment occurred when Cole-Mann redlit by a mere -0.001, but neither driver knew this and so they continued their runs. Cole-Mann with a no-good 6.879 at 215 mph. Atkins clinched the victory with a 6.975 at 200 mph, capitalizing on the red light. The event was a testament to the skill and determination of the drivers, culminating in a finale that was as dramatic as it was unforgettable, showcasing the exhilarating potential of stick shift racing.