24h Le Mans
Aurore Charlot and Ludovic Coubard are marshals at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. They are also life partners away from the track. As ardent fans of motorsport, their hearts beat as one when it comes to ensuring driver safety at the legendary race.
Aurore and Ludovic belong to the huge family of track marshals who serve at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. “We are the eyes of race control," says Aurore, 30. "They wouldn’t be able to make any decisions without us because the video surveillance cameras don't cover everything. We’re there to protect the drivers and warn them with our flags in case of danger.”
As a youngster, Aurore accompanied her father, also a marshal, to the racetrack. She met Ludovic when she was in her teens. He obtained his marshal’s licence in 2004 and Aurore followed suit four years later. Since then, the two young lovebirds’ social life has been organised around the races held at the Bugatti circuit. At the 24 Hours, they work in zone 24-25b at Indianapolis. “Viewed from the outside, it may look like we’re neglecting our family life,” admits 34-year-old Ludovic, “but this is our passion. Our families and friends are very understanding. We are volunteers. We do this in our own time but wouldn’t swap our place for anything in the world,” he continues.
When trackside, the complicity between Aurore and Ludovic is evident but they don’t lose sight of their mission. “We know how the other will react,” Aurore explains. “We completely trust one another but, over the years, we have built up that trust with the other marshals too.” “When we take a good look at ourselves, we realise how privileged we are and what a super experience this is,” Ludovic adds. “Sharing a passion strengthens our love for each other.”
Aurore and Ludovic strongly encourage other racing fans who are toying with the idea of becoming marshals to take the plunge. “It’s a great opportunity to be part of the race and get up close to the action. The marshals are like one big, happy family. When you are in a spot of bother, you know you can rely on the others for support.”
On Saturday 12 June, Aurore and Ludovic will be at their post from 7.00 a.m. for the 89th 24 Hours of Le Mans, united in their passion for the event but, above all, in ensuring the race goes off safely.
Happy Valentine’s Day to them, and to lovers of the 24 Hours of Le Mans everywhere!
