[LM24] Le Mans - the FAQ's (Information Only - Not for Chat!)

[CTD]

This is the thread where all questions concerning Le Mans, going to Le Mans and so on can be asked.

Everything from Le Mans Virgins (First timers, new as old members), Time-to-Time Visitors, Frequently Visitors, and those of us who just can't stop going, are welcome to post and answer questions. The point is to keep all questions and answers in one thread so it's easy to find information, and one can post what ever question one have, without having the fear of "hijacking" a thread, or spoiling the on going debate.

Again
ALL questions regarding Le Mans is welcome, don't hesitate - We don't bite (Le Mans does however, you'll never get away, once bitten )

To start of here are some basic information:
24 Hours Le Mans site:
http://www.lemans.org/en/races/24h/update.html
Great First Timer Guide, from one of our best members:
http://www.aysedasi.co.uk/2002/firsttimers.htm
Le Mans Map
Le Mans Map

Map over Le Mans (Circut de La Sarthe):

[Beetle]

Thanks, CTD! Looks rather complicated...

[CTD]

Originally Posted by Beetle

Thanks, CTD! Looks rather complicated...

It isn't . Once your there, see the size, you just follow the streams of people

[Simmi]

The map does look kind of daunting to be honest on paper. But once you're there it's not.

The actual scale of the place is something you can only really take in through being there.

[racerkeke]

Keep in mind that a lot of the track on the right side (east) is not accessible to spectators, too.
keke
(looking forward to spending a week at the second chicane)

[Tim the Grey]

One thing to mention for first timers? The place is so big, you will have to think of things as 3 times bigger than any place you've ever been!
Pit exit to Porsche Curves is a GOOD 30-40 minute walk, for example! I can get from Kemmel to La Source in that time.

[GreenMachine]

Agree - don't underestimate the distances - that map does not have a scale unfortunately.

I camped at Beausejour for the week, and some lessons I learned include:

* Check the bus timetables - one day it didn't run at all , and on Sunday when the traffic is gridlocked, guess how long the bus takes ... make sure you have good walking shoes .

* If camping, take tape to stake out your site, and don't pitch too close to the loos especially if rain is expected.

* You can't be running back and forth between the circuit and Beausejour - so be prepared to lug in what you need - camera, water, food, raincoat/umbrella, folding chair ... etc, and check you have everything before you set out.

* stay for the fireworks on Sunday night - not the official sort, but fun nevertheless, and you get to miss the world's biggest traffic jam on Sunday afternoon! Monday is much more civilised, and you can drive around most of the circuit to boot!!

One of lifes great experiences, hopefully I will be back before I cark it!!!!

[Down F0rce]

If you're staying in a tent, I'd recommend a sleeping mask like this:



Tents aren't very good at keeping light out!

[crooky]

Originally Posted by Down F0rce

If you're staying in a tent, I'd recommend a sleeping mask like this:



Tents aren't very good at keeping light out!

Plus ear buds or even better in ear headphones to drown out the noise at night if you want to sleep.

[kpkorsager]

remember a waterproof ticket lanyard. It offen gets wet at lemans.

[NelisB]

Originally Posted by kpkorsager

remember a waterproof ticket lanyard. It offen gets wet at lemans.

No it doesn't !

[Victor_RO]

Just to make sure of one thing: during Wednesday/Thursday practice and quali, does a GA ticket allow you entrance in any of the grandstands (including T34)?

[CTD]

Originally Posted by Victor_RO

Just to make sure of one thing: during Wednesday/Thursday practice and quali, does a GA ticket allow you entrance in any of the grandstands (including T34)?

Yes, I'm not 100% sure about the ACO member Grand Stand, but otherwise they are all open.

[batmobile]

Originally Posted by Victor_RO

Just to make sure of one thing: during Wednesday/Thursday practice and quali, does a GA ticket allow you entrance in any of the grandstands (including T34)?

Not in the ACO member Grandstand. During the qualifying sessions if I remember you don't need an ACO Grandstand Ticket, only a member bracelet after to have registered in the ACO members' site near the Dunlop bridge.
ACO Grandstand Ticket is only needed for the race.

[Aysedasi]

I'm not sure about that either, but there are plenty of others to choose from - take the chance while you can!