IMSA Prototype Lites Adds Trois-Rivieres to Calendar

The International Motor Sports Association (IMSA)-sanctioned Mazda Prototype Lites Presented by Cooper Tires will compete Aug. 12-14 at the Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières (GP3R) in Trois-Rivières, Quebec, Canada.

Rounds 7 and 8 of the 14-round IMSA Development Series will take place during the 47th edition of the popular street circuit event, which also will host the IMSA-sanctioned Ultra 94 Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Canada by Yokohama on its impressive weekend schedule. The addition of the two rounds completes the 2016 Prototype Lites schedule.

“IMSA is thrilled to put the finishing touches on our 2016 Mazda Prototype Lites Presented by Cooper Tires schedule with two rounds at the Grand Prix Trois-Rivières,” said Randy Hembrey, IMSA senior series manager, Development & Single-Make Series.

“The event is filled with so much history and tradition, and GP3R fans are so passionate for racing. We’ve always loved this race and the way the entire region embraces it. We know our teams, drivers and partners will enjoy the unique festival atmosphere and competition.”

This will be the first appearance of prototype sports cars on the 10-turn, 1.5207-mile (2.433 km) temporary street circuit since 2003, when two classes of prototypes in the American Le Mans Series raced.

“We are proud to welcome the Mazda Prototype Lites Presented by Cooper Tires to the 47th running of our event,” said Dominic Fugère, general manager of the Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières.

“It is a pleasure to have prototypes back on our street track for the first time since 2003, and we know that the teams and drivers lined up on Aug. 12, 13 and 14 will add a tremendous sporting and entertainment value for our loyal road-racing fans.”

The GP3R event will mark the second race weekend in Canada for Mazda Prototype Lites Presented by Cooper Tires in 2016.

The preceding event weekend, Rounds 5 and 6, will take place during the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship event weekend July 8-10 at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park in Bowmanville, Ontario.