15 year-old phenom tests with the Racers Group.
Auston Harris was invited to test in a TRG Porsche 996 at the new Miller Motorsports Park just outside Salt Lake City, Utah. This testing was conducted over two days with Auston driving in three 30 minute sessions each day..
The two days of testing were a tune up for The Racers Group drivers for the upcoming ALMS event at Miller Motorsports Park. Kevin Buckler, owner of TRG, and TRG driver Andy Lally and professional drivers Craig Stanton and Gunnar Jeannette were present for the two days of testing.
Once again Auston demonstrated his ability to very quickly adapt to new cars. In December of 2005 he drove an all-wheel drive turbo charged car for the first time and quickly became one of the quicker drivers on the 25 Hour race team. This was Auston's first experience in a rear engined sedan, specifically a Porsche. While Auston was driving the Porsche 996 others were in the newer Porsche 997 which has increased performance. Over the six sessions Auston consistently dropped his lap times by over two seconds a session. In his final session he posted his best time of 3 minutes and one second to navigate the 4.5 mile, 23 turn circuit. Auston's best time was quicker than most of those at the event including those driving the newer 997 model.
Since Auston is only 15 he must wait until next year, his birthday is in December, before he is permitted to participate in ALMS or Grand-Am events. However he is a seasoned driver with experience in formula cars and sedans, including a third place finish in a 25 hour endurance race. He clearly demonstrated in this test that he is ready and capable to step into a Porsche early next year and hold his own.
Auston in his Formula Open-Wheel Car at Thunderhill
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