24h Le Mans
Reunions took place Saturday evening during the traditional briefing which for the track marshals marks the moment things start to get serious. Of course there was a friendly atmosphere, and plenty of smiles and interactions, but also quite a bit of focus...then they went to work on the track on Sunday.
The volunteer track marshals come from every corner of France and all over the world, but are all brought together by one shared passion: the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Many are older than 40 and have participated for years under the leadership of the Association des Commissaires de Piste de l'Ouest presided over by François Cuny. To contribute to the success of the most famous motorsports race in the world is a sacred undertaking for these men and women supported by a single credo: "Volunteers only!" And yet the job is no walk in the park. Their marching orders are crucial to the safetey of the competitors in the race. "They are the eyes of the Race Direction," underscores Martin Goureau, head of track safety for the Automobile Club de l'Ouest.
Saturday, trading places with the drivers in the vast Welcome Hall, the track marshals attentively listened to updated directives provided by Vincent Beaumesnil, Sporting Director for the Automobile Club de l'Ouest and Race Direction staff. The true managers of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, they are expertly trained for this unique endeavor. From strict compliance with procedures up to and including handling flags in the wind, they are the deputized right arm of the Race Direction in the heart of the Circuit de la Sarthe. Over the years, some are entrusted with new responsibilities such as the use of the Manitou vehicles to ensure, whenever necessary, the successful removal cars immobilized in gravel traps.
Dressed in highly recognizable orange coveralls, the armada of track marshals will return to the edge of the circuit on Wednesday, June 14th for the first free practice session. Volontarily!
