Dick Pierson on racing at Le Mans Classic

In an effort to try to let your guys know what to expect at Le Mans Classic, I will outline my experience from 2006. Number one rule: You are participating in the biggest vintage car racing dog and pony show in the world: enjoy it and have fun as the French people do! First will be the party at Chiron on Wednesday July 9, that will be a fans, media and sponsors get together. In 2006 there was about 175 people at Chiron, which is located in northern Le Mans, to witness the unveiling of the Charger.

I’m suspect that this year it will be much bigger because of having two cars there, not just the Charger. Time to hob knob with some of the local business community. As I understand it, there will be some TV crews taping and local print publications there as well. Casual event, dress accordingly, finger food, Bar-b-Que, lots of wine and beer. A good opportunity to meet some of the local movers and shakers.

Report to the track on Thursday morning bring all of your gear, you will not be on the track on Thursday but you will have to check in and register, they will want to inspect your helmet, etc. bring all gear with you to check in. The rest of the day will be spent at the track if you wish, not too much going on except some amazing cars showing up, this will be one of the few times you will have a chance to really see the older vintage cars, they are fantastic.

Friday is practice day. Need to be there early to ready the car and the team for the experience. In your case I’m sure that Jean Maries will probably have most of this day scripted for you so all you have to do is get into the car when it is appropriate. You will probably want to spend a little time out on pit wall during this time, great to watch the older cars run. Maybe be a good idea to practice getting in and out of the car before you actually have to do it. Practice is short and to make the best of it, the better you are at getting in and out the more track time you will actually have.

Saturday, race day. By now you will know when you will be getting on the track. My recommendation is to get there early and figure you will be residing at the track until Sunday afternoon unless there is an opportunity to leave and come back. In 2006 there were 60000 people that showed up on Saturday, there is a ton of people traffic in the paddock area and every time cars move it gets bigger. People will probably want to talk to you, get your autograph’s etc. When it is time to go track side you will proceed to the pit area (in front of the grandstands) and be at the ready to take your shift. Be sure to go into the grandstands if at all possible and watch the “Le Mans starts” in the first three groups, it is something to behold. Sunday, basically the same as Saturday. Have fun and be in the moment, it is a great experience and one that will be very difficult for you to duplicate anywhere in the world.

Comments

[Sean Hoff]

Nice to hear your memories, Dick I will be trying to catch you all on the speed channel. I wanted to wish you good luck and god speed and as Hemingway has said - “Auto racing, bull fighting, and mountain climbing are the only real sports ... all others are games.” - The Hoffs