24h Le Mans
If you’re a racing fan, you’re probably keen to share your passion with your nearest and dearest. For anyone thinking of taking their offspring to the circuit for the first time, we asked other parents for a few tips.
Passions and pastimes are often handed down the generations. Motor racing and the 24 Hours of Le Mans are no exception to the rule. To help your little ones develop an interest and start making racetrack memories, you will need to ensure the best possible conditions when you take them along to the world’s greatest endurance race. Admission is free for under-16s so you can decide at what age you want to introduce your youngster to the 24 Hours of Le Mans. “There’s no point before the age of 4 or 5,” thinks Florent, dad to 8-year-old Jules.
PROTECTION AND COMFORT COME FIRST
The circuit is huge and fans of all ages are at the mercy of the elements. Your first priority is to make sure your budding race fan is comfortable. Protecting their ears with noise-cancelling headphones or suitable earplugs is a must. Take along their favourite snacks and plenty of drinks to avoid dehydration. And don't forget their comforter – a precious ally when tiredness kicks in!
The 24 Hours of Le Mans circuit is very big... especially for little legs! It’s also important to choose the right time when introducing your child to the joys of the racetrack. For Florent, “Test Day is ideal. There aren't as many people and the grandstands are open at no extra cost.” That makes it easier for parents and kids to take a break, put their feet up and have a bite to eat somewhere sheltered, without missing a minute of the track action. The traffic is also much lighter than on race day. “The afternoon or evening free practice sessions are another idea,” he adds.
To get your youngsters interested in what’s happening, encourage them to put their observational skills to the test. “Give them a stopwatch and teach them to start the timer when a particular car goes by,” recommends another parent. Note the times yourself and compare them with those recorded by your child. Or give them the Spotter’s Guide and help them identify the cars and drivers. And if they speak French or you're keen for them to pick up a few words, there is a special 24 Hours of Le Mans edition of the Journal de Mickey comic this week!
The Kids Zone in the heart of the Race Village (see map here) is designed for kids aged 3-12 to have fun. There, they’ll find activities such as face painting, Kapla construction, a bouncy castle and even a special area for babies. The hosts and hostesses welcome the LMP class (Le Mans Pushchairs) with open arms! Both the grown-ups and the kids are bound to be ready for a breather at some point!
Another place that will appeal to racegoers big and small is the funfair! Jump on the big wheel to admire the cars and the circuit from up high and take home some special memories. And if you’re visiting with friends, it’s also a chance for the grown-ups to sit down and relax for a bit. If energy levels are dipping, it’s time for a quick fix of sugar – you’ll find all the usual fairground goodies on offer!
Now you know how get maximum enjoyment when bringing young children to the race, bring along the whole gang!
