The 24 Hours of LeMans

I was disappointed that Audi lost the 24 Hours of LeMans but I will congratulate Peugeot on their win. This year, they undoubtedly performed better than Audi. They not only had a better car this year, they also improved their performance in the pits and their decision making on the pit box. I think a lack of race time also accounts for Audi's performance this year. Peugeot ran the 908 at Sebring and during one of the LMS races this season whereas Audi only ran the R15 at Sebring. Given that the 908 is in it's third year and is a proven, developed machine the lack of race time on the first year R15 prevented Audi from finding and fixing flaws such as the intercooler overheating. You can test all you want, but some problems just aren't going to show up until you go through the stress of racing.

On the other hand, it was wonderful to see Corvette win their last GT1 race. If you don't think a win or class win in this race means something, witness Dan Binks as the 63 Corvette crossed the finish line. This is a man who had his hands in 15 sports car championships, yet he was in tears as he finally got his first LeMans win. Through all of Corvette's LeMans wins, he had never been on the team that won. Hearing our national anthem played as the Corvette team stood atop the GT1 podium was inspiring. Here's hoping that Corvette's GT2 program (if it continues given GM's financial problems) is just as successful.

Mac McCormick III
kf4lmt@comcast.net