Grand-Am names ALMS veteran official Paul Walter as race director

rand-Am Road Racing on Jan. 3 announced that veteran road-racing official Paul Walter is the organization's new race director, effective immediately. Grand-Am managing director of racing operations Mark Raffauf, who formerly served as Grand-Am's race director, will now focus on operational and logistical aspects. He will continue to report to Grand-Am managing director of competition, Richard Buck.

Walter, who will also report to Buck, will continue to serve as race director for the American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patr¢n, a job he has held since January 2012. His dual roles will become one in 2014, when the recently merged organizations launch their combined series beginning with the 2014 Rolex 24 at Daytona.

"This is a prime example of using our combined resources to make things happen and build for the future," Buck said. "Paul brings considerable experience and respect, and will serve as a great bridge in the competition area between Grand-Am and the ALMS."