In 1956, a big chance created by Chevrolet rolled on the hot asphalt of the Sebring International Raceway for the first time. Across the next 60 years, that big chance turned into a worldwide icon and one of the ultimate legends on both the street and the track. As it crossed the finish line second and third in it respective class during the 2012’s Twelve Hours of Sebring, the Corvette was finally inducted into the famous race track’s Hall of Fame.
“We are thrilled that Sebring has recognized the success of the Corvette on the race track by inducting it into the hall of fame,” said Russ Clark, Chevrolet marketing director for Performance Cars. The recognition happened during the 60th Anniversary of the Twelve Hours of Sebring. Backed by Corvette Racing, the American Le Mans Series (ALMS) prepped group of racers placed two and three in the GT1 class. Since its first track start at the Florida track in 1956, 231 of the all-American sports cars have competed in the prestigious endurance race. With seven wins under its belt, Corvette Racing is now the most successful team in the history of ALMS and that success can be seen, heard and felt in the Vettes of the streets.
“Even more important than the awards and race wins are the benefits to our production vehicles as a result of our racing programs,” said Clark. “We have been successful at transferring racing technology to the street, especially in our high-performance vehicles such as the Corvette ZR1, Z06 and our carbon fiber models, including aerodynamic, powertrain, chassis, braking, safety and design features.”
Source: Chevrolet
