GOODLETTSVILLE, TN; April 1, 2023—With a crowded field of GT3 racing teams vying for customers, newly-formed WesSport considers itself at the top of the list. When team principal Wes Duenkel asked if their one-person operation possesses the experience an expertise to operate a multi-car top-level GT3 effort, Duenkel replied, “Pfffft. How hard can it really be?”
Duenkel explains the team will operate three GT3 cars out of his two-car garage in Goodlettsville Tennessee, just north of Nashville. “My wife wasn’t excited about running this GT3 team out of our garage—it’s essentially the basement of our house—but I assured her she wouldn’t lose her parking space. Fortunately, the driveway is kinda big, so we can keep two of the cars outside and simply move stuff around when necessary.”
WesSport’s plans include a facility expansion and an on-site test track. Considering WesSport HQ’s residential setting, Duenkel assures harmony with his neighbors can be maintained. “Eh, this is a pretty sleepy neighborhood, but I don’t think they’ll mind as long as we don’t start the cars before 5:00 AM. The three transporters parked along the street may be an issue, but I’m confident I can smooth that over with the homeowners’ association. After all, I can’t imagine anyone who wouldn’t love living next to a racetrack!”
When asked what global races WesSport plans to contend, Duenkel replied, “Probably all of them. Bathurst, Nürburgring, Spa…Daytona is a given. I’m sure the ACO will want us to do Le Mans as well.”
WesSport has yet to ink a deal with a major GT3 marque, but Duenkel is bullish on their prospects. “We’re currently in negotiations with multiple manufacturers. Frankly, whoever shows up first with free cars and a dump truck full of money likely has the contract.”
Funding for operations, transporters, staff, entry fees, extensive testing regimen, global travel, and three GT3s remains…murky, but Duenkel is confident. “Everything is in place. All we need are six fully…and I mean fully…funded drivers. I expect the phone to be ringing off the hook any minute.”
