Photo : Christophe Millet - ACO/Nikon

12/24 - Sunday, 12th December - Andy Meyrick

The inclusion of a relatively unknown young Englishman from Chester driving a French car, and along with two leading lights, surprised some observers. Fourth in the 24 Hours of Le Mans 2010 behind the three Audi R15, Andy Meyrick has won over skeptics.

The career history of the 25 year old Meyrick is unusual. In 2008, after winning seven of the first twelve rounds of the national F3 championship, Andy was struck down by a disease that put him in intensive care for three weeks. He made a miraculous recovery and made his return a few months later under the critical eye of a big name endurance racing in the person of David Brabham: "Andrew has shown today that he was back at the best level, after was struck by a terrible virus. This can only give impetus to his career. "

The Australian is correct, Meyrick was spotted by Colin Kolles - now director of the Formula 1 team HRT. Driving an ageing Audi R10, he learned his new discipline in the shadow of teammates such as the seasoned ex-F1 driver Narain Karthikeyan. He participated in all of the Le Mans Series, but the young prodigy missed the 24 Hours of Le Mans 2009.

His talent has not escaped the eye of de Chaunac, who gave him the chance to drive the greatest endurance race in the world this year. Well supported by Didier Andre and Soheil Ayari.  Andy's emotional reaction to the result: "To be honest I was more tired after the parade than after the race, but I think there is nothing like it in the world. I would simply say that this is the best week of my life. Sure I'd love to come back next year ... In fact, I would like it next week! "

Julien Hergault

Photo: LE MANS, technical and administrative scrutineering of the 24 HOURS OF LE MANS, June 7, 2010. well advised by Didier Andre (left), Andy Meyrick would soon surprise observers.