“My target demographic in open-wheel racing was 18 to 27 years old. In sports cars, my demographic is 18 to 65 years old. And it’s year-round.”
Pataskala, Ohio (10 July 2014)– Joining the ranks of other motorsports pioneers and leaders like Jackie Stewart and McLaren F1’s Ron Dennis, Michael Shank Racing with Curb/Agajainian team owner Mike Shank has been profiled in the August issue of Road & Track Magazine.
Shank first formed Michael Shank Racing with Curb/Agajainian in 1989 to support his own racing exploits as the young Ohio resident boldly converted a bank loan into a racing program as he pursued a driving career in the IndyCar ranks. As other drivers recognized his zeal for preparation that matched his fearless driving style, Shank grew his business to also manage race campaigns for other drivers.
While he impressed with his early steps in the sport, netting the CART Formula Atlantic C2 Championship as well as SCCA Driver of the Year honors, Shank made the transition from driver to full time owner, winning as a team owner in the highly competitive category with Sam Hornish Jr. and Kenny Wilden before moving his focus to endurance sports car racing in 2004.
That focus has seen his team establish a firm presence in the sport, with Daytona International Speedway providing two key highlights with his team bringing Ford the overall victory in 2012 with drivers John Pew, AJ Allmendinger, Justin Wilson, and Ozz Negri, as well as breaking the track speed record with the Ford EcoBoost powerplant in 2013 with Colin Braun driving.
Beyond the trophies and the spent champagne magnums, Shank has long been recognized for his strong work ethic and loyal relationships he fosters with sponsors, drivers, manufacturers, and a range of contacts in the sport, something that hadn’t escaped the notice of Road & Track contributor Marshall Pruett.
“It was pretty incredible when Marshal (Pruett) said they wanted to do something about me,” said Shank, who will be back in race action this Sunday as IMSA heads North to Canadian Tire Motorsports Park. “I appreciate that they recognized some of the things that this team has accomplished but to me its just another good chance to hopefully introduce more readers to IMSA and what we are doing in the TUDOR Championship and hopefully this just helps us continue to build that audience.”
Readers can find the profile in the August, 2014 issue of Road & Track Magazine, which is hitting news stands now.
