Travel Destinations at the Autosport Show 2011
The Autosport International Show was a big hit for sports car fans this year with numerous personal appearances by endurance racing legends and current stars.
Tom Kristensen and John Hindhaugh on the Travel Destinations stand
Current Le Mans champions Audi had both Tom Kristensen and Allan McNish at the show, whilst rivals Peugeot were represented by Anthony Davidson. McNish and Davidson went head to head whilst appearing on the Autosport Main Stage together whilst 8 times Le Mans winner Tom Kristensen took time out of his busy schedule to appear alongside John Hindhaugh from Radio Le Mans on our Travel Destinations stand. We were also fortunate to be visited once again by our friend and 2003 Le Mans winner Guy Smith.
Anthony Davidson and Allan McNish answer questions
Away from Le Mans it was the Rolex 24 at Daytona that was the focus of attention. With the race only weeks away (29th & 30th January) some of the drivers made appearances on the Sunoco stand including the famous names of Brundle and Blundell. Martin Brundle and Mark Blundell are making a return to endurance racing at the Rolex 24 at Daytona with Richard Dean’s United Autosports team.
Martin Brundle and Mark Blundell discuss the Rolex 24 at Daytona
Martin and Mark appeared alongside newcomer Ross Kaiser who has won the Sunoco Rolex 24 at Daytona Challenge, giving him a drive in the Doran Racing car alongside Brian Friselle, Matt Bell and Henri Richard. It is a fantastic opportunity for Ross who won his place through his victorious performance in the Radical UK Cup. Although Ross will be racing directly against the United Autosport team Martin and Mark were happy to pass on advice to Ross, who’s only experience of Daytona was at a practice session last week.
Ross Kaiser and Mark Blundell discuss the banking at Daytona
Martin Brundle will be competing in an endurance race car for the first time in nearly 10 years, although he managed to post the 13th quickest time in last weekend’s 3 day practice. “Pulling on my race suit, putting on my helmet, and jumping in a race car again, I did feel a little anxious,” Brundle said after his first-ever stint driving a Rolex 24 Daytona Prototype . “But once out on to the track, everything comes back to you, it’s natural – just like swimming or riding a bike, you never forget how to do it. I quickly shook off the rust and dropped back in to the groove.”
Mark Blundell is a Rolex 24 debutant, although he has a lot of endurance racing experience. “Having raced and been successful in 24 hour races at Le Mans, and at Spa with United Autosports last year, it’s all about working towards the race as opposed to one lap ‘fliers’ in that the car is useable and predictable for all four drivers for the entire duration,” Blundell said. “After three days practice at Daytona, I’ve gradually got to know my way around and I now feel comfortable.”
Ross Kaiser and Helen with the Travel Destinations 2011 brochure
Ross Kaiser took some time out from many press conferences to make a personal appearance on the Travel Destinations stand. “I have listened to everything that Mark and Martin have said. Their advice is invaluable.” Ross said. “After my experience of testing at Daytona last week, I know a little more now of what to expect. To be honest, I can’t wait to get back out there.”
Travel offers for both the Rolex 24 at Daytona and the Le Mans 24 Hours 2011 are still available.
Please call us on (0844) 873 0203 to reserve you place.
The Autosport International Show will return to the NEC in Birmingham from the 12th – 15th January 2012.
