Nicole Havrda Charges to Class Victory in Prototype Debut

Canadian race driver Nicole Havrda delivered a resilient and determined performance this past weekend, overcoming adversity to secure a class victory in a dramatic turnaround across two races.

Havrda showed strong pace from the start, qualifying fifth overall and second in class while continuing to learn not only a new circuit, but a whole new category as she made her debut in prototype racing.

After qualifying, she said, “I couldn’t be happier, since it’s my first time qualifying an LMP3 car.”

Race 1 began with promise. Havrda made an impressive start, holding second in class and engaging in close battles throughout the race. However, her charge was cut short in the closing stages when smoke began filling the cockpit.

“Things were going really well and I thought I was on my way to a second place,” she said. “But on the second last lap I could smell smoke in the cockpit and had to retire.”

Due to her retirement on Saturday, Sunday’s race saw Nicole starting from the back of the grid. A decisive opening lap saw her gain multiple positions and quickly move back into contention.

Maintaining strong pace and composure, Havrda continued her charge through the field, climbing to fifth overall as the race entered its closing stages.

In a dramatic final-lap showdown, she executed a bold outside pass in the last corner, completing the move to finish fourth overall and secure first place in her class.

“I couldn’t be happier, and I can’t thank my team enough,” she said after the race.

The result marked a significant comeback – highlighting Havrda’s racecraft, composure, and determination. All in all, an excellent debut for the Canadian.