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Wheelhouse Motorsports put together an impressive showing in Rounds Five and Six of the Mustang Challenge at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, overcoming rain delays, humid conditions, and intense on-track battles to bring home multiple podium finishes. Both drivers and crew delivered a strong and determined performance that ultimately earned well-deserved trophies.
Race Once was marked by a significant weather interruption, as severe storms forced a delay before the 45-minute contest could get underway. When the green flag finally waved, Wheelhouse Motorsports wasted no time making its presence known.
Sandy Satullo, who qualified third earlier in the day, executed a clean and consistent race. Despite pressure from the pack and fierce battle for the lead unfolding ahead, Satullo held firm to secure a third-place finish and a podium spot.
Joseph Dederichs also capitalized on opportunity in Race One. After qualifying third in class, he advanced on position before the race even began due to another competitor being unable to start. Dederichs made the most of the situation, maintaining his composure throughout the race to claim an impressive second-place finish and bringing home the class's second-largest trophy.
Tom Tait's race, however, ended in frustration. Starting fourth, Tait ran a steady race and kept himself within striking distance of a podium position. With less than two minutes remaining, he made and aggressive move up the inside of Turn Four in an attempt to break into the top three. Unfortunately, he braked too late, ran into the dirt runoff, and was forced out of contention just moments before the checkered flag
Race Two delivered even more action and redemption for the Wheelhouse Motorsports lineup.
Will Lucas, starting forth, put on a charge from from the waving of the green flag. Demonstrating pace and precision, Lucas worked his way through the field and found an opening early in the race, slipping past Satullo to take over third position. He maintained strong pace throughout and secured. a podium finish, giving fans and exciting performance to watch.
In the Dark Horse Legends class, Both Tait and Dederichs delivered standout performances.
After the disappointment of Race Once, Tom Tait returned with determination. Starting from pole position, he initially dropped back but quickly regrouped. Over the course of the race, Tait fought his way forward, ultimately crossing the line in second place. However, a post-race penalty assessed to the original winner elevated Tait to first, awarding him the victory and completing a remarkable comeback.
Dederichs also impressed in Race Two with a fast and aggressive start. Beginning in third, he surged to the front of the field within the opening five minutes, positioning himself as a serious contender. He held strong for much of the race but, after a hard-fought battle, came out finishing third - still securing another podium and contributing to a double podium result for the team in class.
With multiple podium finishes and a race win secured at Mid-Ohio, Wheelhouse Motorsports Leaves the weekend with strong momentum as the season continues.
The team nor sets its sights on the next round later this month at Watkins Glen International, where they'll look to build on this success.
Fans can stay up to dat with Wheelhouse Motorsports by following @wheelhousemotorsports on all major social media platforms. All Mustang Challenge races are available live and on-demand vis the IMSA Youtube Channel.
Race 1:
Dark Horse
3rd: Sandy Satullo #7
4th: Will Lucas #34
Dark Horse Legends
2nd: Joseph Dederichs #63
4th: Tom Tait #8
10th: Jim Farley #17
Race 2:
Dark Horse
3rd: Will Lucas #34
5th: Sandy Satullo #7
Dark Horse Legends
1st: Tom Tait #8
3rd: Joseph Dederichs #63
9th: Jim Farley #17
Wheelhouse Motorsports introduces its 2026 driver lineup for the IMSA Mustang Challenge and World Racing League seasons — the largest roster in team history.
January 6, 2025
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