24 Hrs of Le Mans: Audi’s dominance continues but….

If you enjoy endurance racing, you should still be experiencing mixed emotions, based on the events which transpired at the 2013 edition of the great race – the 24 Hour of Le Mans.

Everyone knew going in that Audi was the team to beat, but much was expected from Japanese giants, Toyota. Qualifying confirmed Audi’s readiness and the roll off start was indeed a Kodak moment for the marque – Audi machines filled the lenses!

Allan Simonsen

But, Toyota had a plan of their own and brought the fight early, tussling for the prime spot as soon as the massive go-flag was waved. Just as we were getting comfortable to absorb the intense drama, many lives changed, forever – we lost Allan Simonsen.

The 2013 24 hours of Le Mans will be remembered as possibly one of the most difficult and challenging editions in the current era and the fact that motor-racing lost a seasoned driver only added to the burden carried by the remaining soldiers in the field.

When you think that the race had one driver fatality in the opening 4 laps, 11 separate yellow flag sessions for a total of 6hrs behind or at pace car speeds and constantly changing weather conditions, which created a treacherous surface, you might begin to understand the mental stamina required to complete this year’s version of the crown jewel of endurance racing.

The celebrations would have taken a reduced volume, out of respect for Simonsen, but praises must be thrown, without pause, to the teams that endured and traversed the minefield, which was the Circuit La Sarthe and emerged victorious.

McNish

Audi’s ace, Tom Kristensen, is now at an incredible total of 9 victories at Le Mans – an incomprehensible feat! His teammate, McNish, who crashed out in 2011, must be feeling somewhat redeemed by his performance this year, improving on the first runner up spot that they reluctantly accepted last year.

So, Audi took the top prize and even though no one remembers second place, we must give Toyota credit (not the Digicel type) because they had Audi worried, but, Audi, as in previous years, escaped and took all the glory. Toyota took second and I am certain they are plotting Audi’s demise as I type.

What was of interest to me, however, is the fact, that immediately in front of the Audi pit area, was a sign/banner, indicating that in 2014, a major player in the endurance game who decided to chill for a bit will be back. Was the banner strategically placed?

Audi’s dominance continues with their victory over the weekend – but – guess who returns in 2014? Porsche!

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24 Hrs of Le Mans – 2013 – Highlights

Cecil Munroe Gleaner On-Line Writer