Photo : - Cooper Tires Prototype Lites / Friedrichphoto.com

In the United States and Europe, endurance racing is actively preparing for tomorrow's champions, like the 18 year old Ricardo Vera, who is in some ways the equal of American Olivier Lombard.

This Christmas will be remembered for the Puerto Rican Ricardo Vera being offered a test at the wheel of the Lola Mazda LM P1 of Dyson Racing, American Le Mans Series champion title holders. This privilege was offered following his victory in the series "Cooper Tires Prototype Lites", a support race of the ALMS.

On Thursday, 22nd December, the young driver completed 35 laps of Sebring. He was easily able to adjust to the power of the Mazda engine with more than twice that of the Mazda MZR that propels the Elan DP02 he was driving this season (230 hp). Next year, Ricardo Vera should continue its ascent in the team category Intersport LMPC.

Ricardo Vera, pilote, champion Cooper Tires Prototype Lites 2011 : . “The car was great – it was almost easier to drive than the LMPC car! I was impressed by the braking of the car and the handling. The gears were really quick and smooth. I would love to get another chance to drive the LMP1 car, it was a great experience!”

Chris Dyson, pilote, champion ALMS 2011 en LM P1 : “I was really impressed with Ricardo. He is mature beyond his years and he has exactly the right approach to succeed in this business. He was immediately consistent and as he became familiar with the Lola LMP and the Mazda turbo, his times really started to come down. His feedback was excellent as well. He will absolutely be a talent to watch for the future. Ricardo earned this test today with his championship and we wish him the very best in 2012.”

American Le Mans Series
Cooper Tires Prototype Lites

Julien Hergault

Photo : SEBRING (FLORIDA, USA), COOPER TIRE PROTOTYPE LITES, 19 MARCH 2011. It is in the Elan DP02, that champions of tomorrow are raised.