Anything can happen in 24 hours (The 24 hours of Le Mans)

With so much happening it is quite a chore keeping track of everything. World Cup (football) has dribbled pass all other activities, so some football has to be thrown into the mix. I was watching the Brazil – Chile encounter at Tastee in Crossroads and when the first goal was scored the jubilant screaming and shouting could rival an army of vuvuzela blowing fans! But, motorsports pays the bills, so let me share my account of the 24 hours of Le Mans.

A race defined by tragedy and triumph, the ultimate challenge for man and machine, the 78th running of the 24 Hours of Le Mans was a spectacular event which honored its reputation.

A zillion dollars spent, preparing a race-car that could go to the moon if required, does not guarantee a spot on the podium, even if you have Formula 1 legend Nigel Mansell in your driver line up.

Fifty five remarkable machines, in 4 classes, got the green for the 2010 24 Hours of Le Mans. The incidents and heartbreak began as soon as the machines thundered down the Mulsanne straight.

Paul Gentilozzi’s effort was sidelined with a clandestine electrical issue. Nigel Mansell got a nasty welcome, when a tire problem sent him sailing into the guard rail. BMW’s Art car had its share of drama. It had early tire trouble, it forced the leading Audi into the gravel trap and later, it threw in the towel and retired. Teams were faced with all sorts of challenges, including a headlight failure (in the night) which led to a massive off for one team.

Peugeot Total

The major story line however, revolved around 2 teams, Peugeot Total and Audi. Peugeot sped away with the win last year and it appeared as if they would do the same this year. They were obviously superior to the Audis and the pride lined up 1-2-3-4 on the grid, ahead of the first Audi.

When the race began, the Peugeots took off as they were expected to, but it wasn’t for long. Peugeot had the speed, but an endurance race is not only about being swift.  A poisonous cocktail of suspension and engine issues, terminated the entire Peugeot Total 908 effort!

Where Peugeot failed, Audi excelled. Team Audi exhibited thorough preparedness. The depth of their endurance program illuminated the 8 mile circuit. Audi’s sound race plan held and as such they thankfully ate the fruits of their labor. The lion roared no more in France (Peugeot)! Audi, in a photo finish, swept all three spots on the podium. Audi 1-2-3!

Cecil Munroe Gleaner On-Line Writer