The Sportscar Vintage Racing Association (SVRA) community gathered on Saturday night to honor its 2023 champions and mark the beginning of a new race season at Sebring International Raceway during the Sebring SpeedTour weekend.
The event celebrated all the sprint and endurance champions of SVRA’s 2023 season alongside recognizing outstanding drivers and mechanics with special awards. Bill Warner, founder of the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, graced the occasion as the Sebring SpeedTour Grand Marshal and keynote speaker.
During the event, Tony Parella, founder of SVRA’s parent company, Parella Motorsports Holdings (PMH), presented Warner with the PMH Trailblazer Award for his significant contributions to motorsports and the vintage community.
Michael Printup, COO of PMH and President of SVRA, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, highlighting the warm camaraderie and sportsmanship among the SVRA community.
Among the awardees was Jonathan DeGaynor, who was honored as the 2023 Most Improved Driver. Harlan “Rob” Crow received recognition as SVRA’s Rookie of The Year, while Jerry Robinson was named the Amateur Mechanic of the Year, and Troy Ermish was awarded the Professional Mechanic of the Year.
Wayne Baker was acknowledged for owning the Most Active Gold Medallion Car, and Rick Fraser received the “Driven to Make a Difference Award” from Customers Bank for his philanthropic endeavors.
Nathan Byrd emerged as the champion in SVRA’s overall Sprint Series standings, followed by Stephen Lisa and Jonathan DeGaynor. Across different groups, various drivers clinched championships, showcasing exceptional performances throughout the season.
In the SVRA Endurance Series, Nathan Byrd secured the championship title, followed by Jerry Robinson and co-driver Bobby Archer, with Andrew Myers finishing third.
The season’s achievements were celebrated, setting the stage for the Thunderhill Speed Tour at Thunderhill Raceway Park, scheduled for March 1-3 as the next event on SVRA’s calendar.
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