If it's race, or even practice week, you can pretty much forget about sleeping in. Right on the dot…read moreat 0900, any silence (or hangover) will be pierced by the shrieking of something like 50,000 horsepower. Because unlike pretty much every race track in the US, the Circuit de la Sarthe isn't hidden away in some remote location miles away from life like you might hide a garbage dump or military proving ground...it's as integral to the town of Le Mans as the church itself. Instead of being some kind of public nuisance, the town and its people have been celebrating this annual spectacle of internal combustion since 1923.
Of course, me being new to the experience, I woke up to the sound and thought...."oh wow, the cars sound so close! I'll just walk to the circuit today." Six kilometers and a bucket of sweat later, I finally arrive at the entry gate. Even if you aren't the slightest fan of motorsport, visiting on a race day provides you with a unique sense of history, place, and even life. One of the most striking images that I had was that of pure technological juxtaposition. As one of the Audi prototype cars zoomed by with its 550 horsepower and cutting-edge carbon fiber monocoque shell...not 20 meters away, I watched a local resident tend to their small, homestead farm.
In addition to the stark contrast between old and new, the racing here is probably the most progressive in motorsport, with increasing efforts to field more environmentally friendly race cars. Since 2006, Audi has been dominating with its cleaner diesel R10, and there increasing numbers of entries that make use of diesel and bio-diesel. For 2008 gasoline powered cars are mandated to use at least some mix of bio-ethanol. And while it certainly isn't a perfect environmental solution, it shows a unique commitment to exploring alternatives to oil dependency.
And since this is going to be an all day event...you're likely to take part in some form of refreshment. Andouillette frittes is the way to go...as long as its unique bouquet isn't a turn off to you. However, if that's too adventurous you could also go for a saucisson en croute, a far cry from the smoky stadium dogs that we're used to, but tasty regardless. Seriously though, the Andouillette is the far tastier option. Of course, the beer flows freely, and the camp grounds are known to turn into a 24h drunkfest.
Bleeding edge technology, a strong sense of history, the excitement of competition, gross displays of power, great stadium food and beer...really it all adds up to an overwhelming and unique spectacle...and I haven't even mentioned the Hawaiian Tropic Girls...
Video link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SR1v87X1kC8
