Robert Wickens talks of his maiden TCR victory in IMSA

Last Saturday’s race of the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge at Watkins Glen marked a thrilling moment in the series’ history with Robert Wickens returning to the winning circle since he suffered a severe spinal cord injury in a 2018 IndyCar race. 

It was such a popular victory, even the other competitors were happy for Wickens and his co-driver of the #33 Bryan Herta Autosport Hyundai Elantra N, fellow Canadian Mark Wilkins.

“It was just great!’’ Wickens said. “I never think I’m an inspirational person but, to come here and to drive – I’m just trying to get back to what I love to do and Bryan Herta Autosport and Hyundai are giving me that opportunity. It’s reassuring to myself that I can still win and compete and challenge even though I’m driving with hand controls. It’s, hopefully, just the beginning of what’s to come.”

The Wickens/Wilkins pair earned the lofty expectations honestly: a third place in their Daytona debut was indicative of their potential. And the Watkins Glen victory comes at an ideal time as they head home this weekend to compete in front of the friendly crowd at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park.

“Really, Mark doesn’t get enough credit for the amount of work he puts into this organization, to this crew. He has so much experience, so much knowledge. I lean on him so much with any idea. I ask him a million questions all the time. He always has patience and answers them all thoroughly. And I think together we’re kind of building something good, so hopefully this is the start of good things to come,” Wickens added.

That taste of victory champagne at Watkins Glen and the confidence gained has only stoked this team’s competitive energy. 

“Deep down, I always thought I would return to racing quicker than I did, but I also underestimated what goes into adapting a race car. I thought when I was ready, I’d call someone and then people would come running with it – and that’s not the case. We really had to hustle to get it done. And here we go.”

Picture: IMSA/LAT Images