UNOH Students Crew Winning Team at Porsche Endurance Challenge

Posted on Wednesday, October 29, 2025

UNOH Students at Porsche Endurance Challenge Road Atlanta

Four University of Northwestern Ohio students recently experienced the thrill of top-tier motorsports firsthand, joining the pit crew for JTR Motorsports Engineering during the Porsche Endurance Challenge at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta.

Benjamin Riley, Ian Howard, Robby Brogan, and Hunter Cole, all active members of the UNOH Race Club, were part of the crew during the four-hour endurance race. Their performance helped lead the team to an impressive 1st and 2nd place finish, marking a major milestone for the students and the team alike.

Each student played a critical role on pit lane — Riley and Howard managed fueling operations, Brogan handled tire changes, and Cole was responsible for fire safety during pit stops. Despite it being their first event together with JTR Motorsports Engineering, the group executed a flawless race, completing every pit stop without a single mistake.

“The moment was unforgettable and considered a very big win for the four of us,” Riley said. “We made no mistakes over the pit wall, which gave a strong impression to the team—especially since it was our first time working with them.”

The opportunity came through a connection made by UNOH instructor Mr. Steve Klausing, who helped Brogan get involved with JTR earlier in the season. When the team needed additional help for the Road Atlanta event, Brogan reached out to his classmates, and they immediately jumped at the chance.

“To be involved in the Porsche Endurance Challenge was actually somewhat easy,” Riley explained. “My close friend Robby Brogan had recently got the opportunity to work with JTR Motorsports Engineering, and they happened to need help for their next event at Road Atlanta. Robby contacted the three of us for the additional help, and we took the opportunity with no questions asked.”

Race day started early, with the group leaving for the track at 6:00 a.m. to prepare the pit lane and set up the fuel rigs — elevated aluminum containers used for quick refueling during pit stops. With strategy in place, JTR’s two cars started in 7th and 4th position, steadily moving up the field through consistent lap times and error-free pit work.

“Within the last 30 minutes of the race, we were in total shock to see that both cars were leading on the lead lap with a huge gap behind us,” said Riley. “The experience of running across pit lane during the final lap to cheer as the cars crossed the start/finish line was unreal. Watching the drivers in victory lane, holding the trophy and spraying champagne, was one of the most exhilarating moments I’ve ever had.”

The win was the perfect ending to an already busy week for the group. Before heading to Road Atlanta, the four had worked at Bristol Motor Speedway for the ARCA event days prior. After celebrating JTR’s win, they drove through the night, arriving back on campus in Lima, Ohio, at 5:00 a.m. Monday morning—just in time for class.

For Riley, the moment was more than just about winning. It was about seeing his career path come into focus.

He first learned about UNOH at the Rolex 24 at Daytona in 2019, when a representative handed him a pamphlet at the “UNOH Fan Zone.” That encounter sparked his journey toward a degree in High Performance Motorsports, where he’s gained the hands-on training and connections that helped him get to pit lane at Road Atlanta.

“My dream job is being a full-time mechanic in IMSA,” Riley shared. “I get closer every year, and it’s certain to say UNOH is the final stamp on my résumé. There are UNOH alumni everywhere in my field of work, and it’s safe to say I won’t be the last.”

Riley also offered advice for future students hoping to follow in his footsteps:

“For future UNOH kids, I encourage them to apply themselves. Join the clubs and make friends. This event was so memorable for me because I got to do it with close friends. Making connections in the motorsports world is so critical. Sometimes you get a job just because you leave such a good impression on a connection.”

From working late nights in the garage to crewing a championship-winning team at one of the nation’s premier racetracks, these four UNOH students demonstrated the power of preparation, teamwork, and opportunity — the very principles that drive success in the world of high-performance motorsports.

About UNOH’s High Performance Motorsports Programs

The University of Northwestern Ohio is a leader in automotive and high performance motorsports education, offering hands-on degree programs that prepare students for careers in racing, performance engineering, and advanced vehicle technologies. With real-world training, industry partnerships, and a nationally recognized motorsports team, UNOH gives students the competitive edge to turn their passion for speed into a profession. For more information about the High Performance Motorsports Program, visit https://www.unoh.edu/academics/college-of-applied-technologies/high-performance-motorsports.html 

Category: Applied Technologies

Keywords: Motorsports, Race Club, Porsche Endurance Challenge