Bengaluru, Oct 29 (IANS): Indias Akhil Rabindra, who bagged a spot at Aston Martins Drivers Academy earlier this year, raced for the fourth IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge, Atlanta. With Automatic Racing, Akhil claimed the pole for FOX Factory 120 with a lap at 106.679 mph.

It is his first career IMSA pole and a new track record. The 23 year old racer, got the first podium for the new Aston Martin in Mugello in Italy at the start of the year and the first pole for the new Aston Martin Vantage GT4 in the US at the end of the season.

"My car was wonderful. We got a really good setup and I think the weather has been changing to our favour. That plays a lot with the tyres and setup. I have a great team behind me that nailed the setup and a teammate in Tom Long who brings a wealth of experience. I'm very happy with the result," Akhil said.

It did not take long for Akhil to set the pole-winning time. He put up the pole lap on his first flying lap. After being unable to improve on his second lap, he chose to bring it into the pits only six minutes into the session and watch everyone else try unsuccessfully to beat his time.