Indianapolis Motor Speedway is a venue steeped in rich motorsports history, where legends are born and champions are crowned. For Kevin Boehm, driver of the No. 97 Random Vandals Racing BMW M4 GT4 G82 in the Silver class, the opportunity to not only compete but to win at this iconic track holds special significance. After previously taking the top step of the podium in last year’s event, he is eager to lift that first place trophy once again. With the upcoming races at IMS poised to determine the Silver class championship, there is even more on the line.
Boehm and his teammate Kenton Koch are presently only a mere 5 points behind the championship leaders, and their preparation for the last two remaining races is rooted in a strategic approach to capitalize on every opportunity.
“Our team was able to do a single-day test at IMS after Road America," Boehm explained. "We normally don't get a chance to do that, but we knew that the races at IMS were going to decide the championship. That gave us a chance to attempt some things with the car setup that we normally wouldn’t have time to try, and I believe that is going to pay off in dividends. Additionally, I spend a good amount of time on my simulator to experiment with different ways to drive the track.”
Although the stakes are high, with little room for error as every point won or lost could sway the outcome of the championship, Boehm is eagerly awaiting the challenge.
“The weekend at IMS is one that I look forward to the most every year,” said Boehm. “At first glance, the road course is very simple. However, the track is actually quite technical and allows for multiple approaches to some of the corners.”
The deceptively straightforward layout requires a great deal of technical understanding and adaptability in order to be successful. While it may not have the same level of complexity or unforgiving nature of some other circuits on the SRO America calendar, its configuration still offers a uniqueness that cannot be overlooked.
“The layout also makes for some great racing with multiple places to pass throughout each lap,” Boehm pointed out.
Winning at any venue in the competitive Pirelli GT4 America series is a big achievement, but doing so at Indianapolis further amplifies the emotions. As the 2024 season comes down to the wire, Boehm’s sights are set on clinching the Silver class championship at IMS, a goal he’s been working towards with a great deal of determination.
“It’s always a great feeling to win any race, but climbing the steps to the podium at the Brickyard reinforces how special a win there really is,” Boehm recalled. “Some of the world’s greatest drivers have climbed those same steps, so it’s a true honor.”
“My switch from Touring cars to GT4 has been a real challenge as I’ve had to unlearn many habits that worked great in Front Wheel Drive cars, but did not work in the BMW GT4 car,” Boehm detailed. “I feel that the Silver class championship would really prove that I have successfully made that transition.”
The personal significance of winning the championship at such an iconic venue is not lost on him. “My 10-year-old self would have never believed I would be in this position—I am living a dream for sure,” he admitted. “Finally, I believe winning the Silver championship is a perfect way to thank all my partners that have made it possible to compete at this level.”
To watch Kevin Boehm fight for the championship title, purchase your tickets now and join us at Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the season finale event from October 4th to 6th!