Gavin Pickering preview

Pickering to Start his Third Le Mans 24 Hours Onboard Epsilon Courage

British Sportscar and GT all-rounder Gavin Pickering has signed to the Epsilon Courage team, confirming his third Le Mans start in as many years.

The Surrey (UK) based driver is pleased with the arrangement. "I am more than happy to sign with Epsilon. Michel (Lecomte) has a very professional approach and the team are fully geared up for the race. The recent problems they have experienced with engine suppliers has, I believe made the team stronger and given them the will to succeed. I have been in talks with the team for over 6 weeks so I am very pleased to have finally closed the deal".

Gavin will share the C-65 configured car with American hotshoe Gunnar Jeanette, also a regular at La Sarthe Circuit, and a third, yet to be confirmed driver. The Le Mans based team have sealed an engine contract with reputable British firm IES, headed up by Graham Dale-Jones.

"This will be my first time with IES power behind me!" Gavin added. I have heared only good things about the supplier so I am happy to go along with that.

Regarding the event itself he continued "Le Mans is a fantastic race. I believe its every sports car drivers dream to do this race, and to finish it too. I have been lucky in that respect so far."

"This is my 3rd start and my aim is to make it 3 finishes from 3 starts. Last year I drove the Welter Racing LMP675 and we made it home to an unofficial 3rd in class, and the time before I was with the Graham Nash/RML Saleen and we finished also. I am looking forward to gaining further experience in the LMP2 class. I think the Courage is a very good chassis and the team have an excellent Resume".

In this 71st running of the classic event, Gavin will be supported by Agnew Higgins Pickering, Cranfield University, Crash.net, Raceplanet.com and other backers to be announced shortly.

-www.mimsport.co.uk-