Le Mans 2 Roues - EWC - Bol d'Or 2024
1st Endurance Race
MOTORCYCLE ENDURANCE RACE
WILLAYK
11/19/20242 min read
Facing the Challenge of Weather and Setup
Participating in my first motorcycle race with the Le Mans 2 Roues team, as Data Engineer, was a blend of excitement and challenges. The experience unfolded during the EWC Championship, where the weather proved to be a significant hurdle. With strong winds buffeting the track, it was clear that many team members, including the four pilots, were feeling uneasy. This sense of apprehension stemmed from both the environmental conditions and the fact that our motorcycle, the Aprilia V4RR was brand new, adding to the complexity of our setup process.
Difficult Qualifications
As the week progressed, our team struggled to find the right configuration for the bike to enhance performance. This struggle was reflected in our qualifying results, where we ended up in 39th position out of 45 competing teams. It was a disappointing outcome, especially considering the hard work and dedication we had invested in preparing for this race. However, we focused on maintaining our morale and ensuring that we were ready for the main event.
A Rewarding 24-Hour Race
Despite the rocky start and the challenges we faced, the 24-hour endurance race itself turned out to be a different story. Once the race began, the team found its rhythm, and we encountered no major issues with reliability or organization. This smooth operation allowed us to navigate the complexities of the race effectively. Our continuous efforts paid off, and we ultimately finished in 19th place. This achievement was not only a testament to our resilience as a team but also a source of immense pride for everyone involved.
As I reflect on my first race with the Le Mans 2 Roues team, I realize that while the journey had its ups and downs, the experience was profoundly rewarding. Overcoming the obstacles of a challenging week, especially under difficult weather conditions, strengthened our bond as a team. The excitement of crossing the finish line after such a demanding race left a lasting impression on all of us. We departed with a sense of accomplishment and anticipation for future races, ready to tackle the next challenge with renewed vigor.