The amazing Nick Tandy’s off the blocks well in Florida, with a stunning pole on his debut drive for the works Porsche team.

Porsche drivers locked out the first four places in the 36-strong GT class, with the first eleven cars split by less than a second. Konrad/Orbit driver Tandy beat last year’s Daytona winner, Magnus Racing’s Andy Lally, to the front, along with plenty of other big names. It’s the perfect opening to a works drive career.

“Pole position in Daytona shouldn’t be underestimated, even if the race runs over 24 hours,” said Nick. “Starting from the front allows you to avoid getting caught up in any skirmishes and that’s certainly an advantage. Our car ran perfectly and that gives us a good feeling for the race.”

Sharing the cockpit with Lally is Porsche works driver, Richard Lietz. “We won the race last year. Second on the grid is an excellent starting position to repeat this success.” Sean Edwards (MOMO Porsche) nabbed third, ahead of Patrick Long in fourth.

In a sure sign of attack mode, Long’s team mate, Patrick Pilet, said he’d love to score a podium. “Sean did an excellent job. After this great qualifying result we are all looking forward to the race. Our goal is to finish on the podium.” Anyone who’s ever seen Pilet drive knows a win is on the cards.

The scene is set for a terrific battle at this year’s Daytona 24 (and I’ve got the perfect birthday present) with new boy Tandy out front, taking 911 needle to the rest. Needle makes for great racing, so this will be unmissable.

Racing starts on Saturday at 15.30 hrs local time (21.30 hrs CET). Get yourself sorted for coverage! There’s be online streaming on a number of websites, and Radio Le Mans will be running their usual excellent race commentary live online. Can’t wait!