24h Le Mans
Thirteen lucky students from the Garage École of Le Mans learned from once-in-a-lifetime involvement in the 24 Hours of Le Centenary, fueling their professional aspirations in the world of motorsport.
Founded on 7 November 2022, the Garage École of Le Mans, of which the ACO is a partner, is a technical school preparing for CAP and Bac Pro diplomas and certifications (opening planned for 2024). Enrollees are trained over the course of two years to become auto mechanic professionals. At this year's 24 Hours of Le Mans Centenary, 13 first-year students joined 13 teams at the start, namely Glickenhaus Racing, COOL Racing, Panis Racing, Hendrick Motorsports, Prema Racing, JMW Motorsport, DKR Engineering, GR Racing, Vector Sport and Hertz Team JOTA.
Victor Mahalin, Director of the Garage École of Le Mans: "[The students] provided logistical and mechanical assistance. Some took care of the tires. They were small tasks but important nonetheless. Everyone made a contribution during this prestigious and historic race.”
This intense immersion in the world of the 24 Hours of Le Mans had a major impact on the students, including solidifying their desire to pursue a career in motorsport. Mahalin: "They were thrilled to have this experience, and very honored to take part in the race in such a special way. They all undertstood what an opportunity it was.
The students also took on the role of flag bearers during the official pre-race ceremony and as the French national anthem played around the circuit.
The experience will undoubtedly serve as an important entry on their CV as proof of their commitment, expertise and ability to immerse themselves in demanding and stimulating professional environments. Mahalin: "Especially since, depending on what was happening on the track, the tension was very high in several garages."
The participation of the Garage École of Le Mans students in the Centenary perfectly corresponds to the ACO's core values relative to a more inclusive, responsable and unified society.
For Garage École of Le Mans students, the Centenary was an extraordinary opportunity to work and learn within some of the best endurance racing teams in the world, strengthening their determination to pursue a career in motorsport.
