Le Mans Endurance Series: Suzuka 1000 kms.
- Thread starter Mulsanne
- 66 comments
- 3,198 views
- 2,571
Hell, fire and brimstone I've missed the qualifying 
I thought it ended on the 22nd! Is there any chance I can either post a late entry tonight or run the race anyway?
EDIT- I'm pulling consistent 1'38s but I want to get a 1'36.XXX time at least, and I know I can so watch this space
DE
I thought it ended on the 22nd! Is there any chance I can either post a late entry tonight or run the race anyway?EDIT- I'm pulling consistent 1'38s but I want to get a 1'36.XXX time at least, and I know I can so watch this space
DE
Yeah, no problem. 
All right, qualifying is over. The final grid positions and time penalties have been given. ls2_297 is listed 4th because he filed an entry first. And since neither submitted a time, I didn't think it was fair to give one more of a time penalty than the other, so I just went ahead and gave them the same time penalty. Is that cool with everyone?
Best of luck to everyone in the race. And thanks again for signing up. 👍 👍 I know there's only five of us, but I will do my best to make it as fun as possible for everyone.
All right, qualifying is over. The final grid positions and time penalties have been given. ls2_297 is listed 4th because he filed an entry first. And since neither submitted a time, I didn't think it was fair to give one more of a time penalty than the other, so I just went ahead and gave them the same time penalty. Is that cool with everyone?
Best of luck to everyone in the race. And thanks again for signing up. 👍 👍 I know there's only five of us, but I will do my best to make it as fun as possible for everyone.
- 2,571
I actually clocked a 1'37.991 in the end. Oh well, I'm at the bottom anyway 
I'll run the race today if I can, Bob may have to do more than an hour
but so what I'm going to do it!
I'm sure Audi R8 on R1/R2s for three hours at Suzuka will cure my hatred of the track!
DE
I'll run the race today if I can, Bob may have to do more than an hour
but so what I'm going to do it!I'm sure Audi R8 on R1/R2s for three hours at Suzuka will cure my hatred of the track!
DE
- 2,571
🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬I DON'T BELIEVE IT!!!
I was about three hours forty-five minutes into the race, half an hour after taking back the car from Bob after his one-hour drive, and THE POWER CUT OUT!
One minute I'm going across the start/finish line yet again, and next I'm staring at a blank screen, with the engine noise and the PS2's fans gone!
I really cannot believe the utterly horrendous luck of that. There's no way I can find time to run the race again. I'm sorry Mulsanne, I just won't be able to find the time until Monday at the earliest.
DE
I was about three hours forty-five minutes into the race, half an hour after taking back the car from Bob after his one-hour drive, and THE POWER CUT OUT!
One minute I'm going across the start/finish line yet again, and next I'm staring at a blank screen, with the engine noise and the PS2's fans gone!
I really cannot believe the utterly horrendous luck of that. There's no way I can find time to run the race again. I'm sorry Mulsanne, I just won't be able to find the time until Monday at the earliest.
DE
Just finished running my race. Whew, what a grueling experience that was. But still a lot of fun blasting through lapped traffic like the real LMP drivers.
Well, since I only have two race times submitted so far (Earth and myself), does anyone mind if I extend the time for the race by a day or so? I really don't want this to be a two-person race. Earth, is that cool with you?
IMO, a couple of things PD should do for the next GT is 1) make the cars more realistic. LMP cars only have about 600+ hp. 2) They should put more LM GT cars in there. Aston DBR9, 'Vette C6.R, Saleen S7R, Panoz Esperante GTLM, TVR T4000R, etc. And 3) they should allow us to choose our opponents. The Suzuka 1000 kms. with LMP cars and GT cars would have been really cool.
Well, since I only have two race times submitted so far (Earth and myself), does anyone mind if I extend the time for the race by a day or so? I really don't want this to be a two-person race. Earth, is that cool with you?
IMO, a couple of things PD should do for the next GT is 1) make the cars more realistic. LMP cars only have about 600+ hp. 2) They should put more LM GT cars in there. Aston DBR9, 'Vette C6.R, Saleen S7R, Panoz Esperante GTLM, TVR T4000R, etc. And 3) they should allow us to choose our opponents. The Suzuka 1000 kms. with LMP cars and GT cars would have been really cool.
- 8,017
- GTP_Royalton
Mulsanne
Thats fine with me, the more that submit time the better. A 2 person race? 👎
Mulsanne
I agree. I would also like to see some LMP2 cars as well (Porsche Spyder). Also the fuel is way unrealistic. I remember the Corvette C6R at LeMans could run 16 laps, in the game it only can run 9. Tire wear is also way off. R1 tires should be able to last at least 20 laps at LeMans
As for the opponents, if they dont let us choose them, they should at least make it like the arcade race, and match the AI cars according to what we're driving
Cool. So Dark Elite and IforceV8, you can turn in the time, let's say, before midnight Tuesday night? Is that okay with you guys? I'd really like to get more race times. Haven't heard anything from ls2_297. You still with us, buddy?
Earth, thanks for understanding and too right on the fuel/tires. Ironically, Arcade mode is a little more realistic, with some tweaking. Set the tire wear to "mild" and you can go 10 laps at Le Mans in an LMP car, before you have to pit for fuel. Tires looked okay, but I don't know how much farther they could have gone. I doubt they would have lasted another stint. Two things for PD to work on.
I figure that without adding any new manufacturers, the next Gran Turismo could have LMP: Audi R10, Pescarolo C60 hybrid, Cadillac LMP02, Dome S101/S101 hb, Lister Storm LMP, Mazda/Courage LMP2, Chrysler (Dallara) LMP (2001), and the 2007 Peugeot LMP1. For GT: Chevrolet Corvette C6.R, Saleen S7R, Aston Martin DBR9, Panoz Esperante GTLM, TVR T400R, Spyker C8 GT2, Callaway C12 GT2, and the Pagani Zonda GT1. Le Mans 24 Hours with darkness/weather and a full field of those cars would be incredible.
Earth, thanks for understanding and too right on the fuel/tires. Ironically, Arcade mode is a little more realistic, with some tweaking. Set the tire wear to "mild" and you can go 10 laps at Le Mans in an LMP car, before you have to pit for fuel. Tires looked okay, but I don't know how much farther they could have gone. I doubt they would have lasted another stint. Two things for PD to work on.
I figure that without adding any new manufacturers, the next Gran Turismo could have LMP: Audi R10, Pescarolo C60 hybrid, Cadillac LMP02, Dome S101/S101 hb, Lister Storm LMP, Mazda/Courage LMP2, Chrysler (Dallara) LMP (2001), and the 2007 Peugeot LMP1. For GT: Chevrolet Corvette C6.R, Saleen S7R, Aston Martin DBR9, Panoz Esperante GTLM, TVR T400R, Spyker C8 GT2, Callaway C12 GT2, and the Pagani Zonda GT1. Le Mans 24 Hours with darkness/weather and a full field of those cars would be incredible.
- 2,571
Yes my race was going fairly well up until that point...
Mulsanne, sorry I won't have time to turn in another five hours for a while, possibly as much as a week
I agree entirely with you on all the realism issues, IIRC in real life cars nearly always have to refuel BEFORE they need to change tyres! PD really should read our forums, we have some fantastic improvement ideas 👍 if you look at the full GTVision video, we may well get all we ask for on PS3! A full field of forty LMP1, LMP2 and GT1 cars would kick the ass of anything else you could ever do with your time! I think what they need to do is introduce other classes in one race like in the LMES and the Le Mans 24, just that would be very cool.
I think what's stoppig them letting us choose our opponents is the fact that it would be abused. Maybe they could set it up like this : 'If you do not use the standard field, you may not choose a field of cars that makes for a race worth less than 75 A-Spec points' or something?
DE
Mulsanne, sorry I won't have time to turn in another five hours for a while, possibly as much as a week
I agree entirely with you on all the realism issues, IIRC in real life cars nearly always have to refuel BEFORE they need to change tyres! PD really should read our forums, we have some fantastic improvement ideas 👍 if you look at the full GTVision video, we may well get all we ask for on PS3! A full field of forty LMP1, LMP2 and GT1 cars would kick the ass of anything else you could ever do with your time! I think what they need to do is introduce other classes in one race like in the LMES and the Le Mans 24, just that would be very cool.
I think what's stoppig them letting us choose our opponents is the fact that it would be abused. Maybe they could set it up like this : 'If you do not use the standard field, you may not choose a field of cars that makes for a race worth less than 75 A-Spec points' or something?
DE
DE, I'm sorry to hear that. Would you do me a huge favor and PM me any details of the race that you remember? I'd like to include it in the race write-up.
As for the number of AI cars, after three games and six years of having just five cars, I'll take 20 AI cars any day.
Yeah, some people will abuse the "choose your own competition" option, but those same people are the ones who need to load up their cars with race parts to blitz the competition. GT "purists" like us, OTOH, just want a close race and would use the feature to achieve that goal of having a close race. One thing I thought about, what about allowing you to choose your own competition for a particular race AFTER you've beaten the competition PD has chosen? That would certainly increase the replay value of the game.
The only reason I suggested it was because I'm sick of racing against Group C cars with my LMP car, or JGTC cars with my DTM. It's like the people at PD have never seen a real-life race. I just would like to have a realistic Le Sarthe 24 with LMP cars as opposition, instead of having a Group C car run away with the race. (rant over)
As for the number of AI cars, after three games and six years of having just five cars, I'll take 20 AI cars any day.
Yeah, some people will abuse the "choose your own competition" option, but those same people are the ones who need to load up their cars with race parts to blitz the competition. GT "purists" like us, OTOH, just want a close race and would use the feature to achieve that goal of having a close race. One thing I thought about, what about allowing you to choose your own competition for a particular race AFTER you've beaten the competition PD has chosen? That would certainly increase the replay value of the game.
The only reason I suggested it was because I'm sick of racing against Group C cars with my LMP car, or JGTC cars with my DTM. It's like the people at PD have never seen a real-life race. I just would like to have a realistic Le Sarthe 24 with LMP cars as opposition, instead of having a Group C car run away with the race. (rant over)
- 2,571
Yes, that'd work well. I didn't think of thatMulsanne
And yep, I'll have a track full of cars on GT4 graphics rather than six 'hyper-real' cars in a dynamic environment, thankyouverymuch. But please do give us damage PD, and make us have to pay for repairs as well, that'd be pretty cool.
I'll PM you what I have here about the race Mulsanne. As it happens, I was quickly scrawling notes down whenever I pitted but it's a little sketchy what with the average 30s pitstop time!
DE
Dark Elite
I hope for that as well. You know the excuse PD has always given as to why damage isn't included ("The manufacturers won't let us.")? I've always wondered if that was true or just PD covering the fact that the PS2 couldn't handle the extra "load" of damage. Hopefully, with the increased capabilities of the PS3 and permission from the manufacturers, we will see damage. (fingers crossed...) Love the idea of paying for repairs. 👍 👍
I would appreciate any info from your race to include in the race report. You can also include a creative reason why the car retired from the race.
Well, unless something dramatic happens in the next three-and-a-half hours, it looks like a two-person race.
- 2,571
Yes indeed, I have heard that excuse from PD. Funny how Codemasters always get permission for the TOCA games, isn't it? I think they just can't model it in in the time they get, because it usually takes two, three or even four years for a new Gran Turismo game to ferment fully, and with damage in it as well that figure could double...
I already have some ideas for the car's retirement, I'm constructing a report to send over now!
DE
I already have some ideas for the car's retirement, I'm constructing a report to send over now!
DE
I went ahead and posted the results of the race. It was hard to sit on the results for so long, especially since it was such a close race between Earth and myself. Major congratulations to Earth. Just about 18 seconds apart after over five hours of hard racing, including the hour of B-spec racing. Once I get the info from Dark Elite, I'll post the race report.
Earth: 👍 👍
Earth: 👍 👍
- 8,017
- GTP_Royalton
18 seconds?! 
I can't believe it was that close. I can't wait to see the race report to see how things developed. 5 and a half hours and it comes down to a mere 18 seconds? I dont know how you can get any closer.
Great racing with you Mulsanne 👍
Can't believe more people didnt sign up, and the problems Dark Elite and IForceV8 had. Really unfortunate. I looked up your Grand Valley 300k thread and was shocked that many people didnt sign up for this one. I just dont get it
As always I will be around if you run another spot race
And thanks for joining ESES 👍
As for GT5, I wonder if they have damage and only 20 cars what do you think will happen at the end of a 24 hour race, especially if the AI remains stupid
I can't believe it was that close. I can't wait to see the race report to see how things developed. 5 and a half hours and it comes down to a mere 18 seconds? I dont know how you can get any closer.
Great racing with you Mulsanne 👍
Can't believe more people didnt sign up, and the problems Dark Elite and IForceV8 had. Really unfortunate. I looked up your Grand Valley 300k thread and was shocked that many people didnt sign up for this one. I just dont get it
As always I will be around if you run another spot race
And thanks for joining ESES 👍
As for GT5, I wonder if they have damage and only 20 cars what do you think will happen at the end of a 24 hour race, especially if the AI remains stupid
Considering the GV300 was back in May, I think I waited too long to do a follow-up race. I think everyone's forgotten about me. I even PM'd everyone in that race, as well as people from other endurance races. Hey, I'd rather race with a few quality people (like you guys), than have 25-30 cheaters in a race.
I couldn't believe it either. I must admit, I snuck a look at your race results before I did my race. Near the end of the race, while watching the race clock, I was getting a little nervous, since I knew you had done a similar race time. But 18 seconds after five hours of racing is just nuts.
Working on the race report right now. Should have it up soon.
Great racing with all of you guys. 👍 👍 Hope you enjoyed it.
As for GT5, I really hope they improve the AI. 20-24 cars with idiots behind the wheel doesn't give me much hope. I also hope they make some of the one or two lap races longer or let us qualify (hopefully both).
I even PM'd everyone in that race, as well as people from other endurance races. Hey, I'd rather race with a few quality people (like you guys), than have 25-30 cheaters in a race.I couldn't believe it either. I must admit, I snuck a look at your race results before I did my race. Near the end of the race, while watching the race clock, I was getting a little nervous, since I knew you had done a similar race time. But 18 seconds after five hours of racing is just nuts.
Working on the race report right now. Should have it up soon.
Great racing with all of you guys. 👍 👍 Hope you enjoyed it.
As for GT5, I really hope they improve the AI. 20-24 cars with idiots behind the wheel doesn't give me much hope. I also hope they make some of the one or two lap races longer or let us qualify (hopefully both).
👍 Thanks for your patience. Here it is. Hope you enjoy it.
LMES Suzuka 1000 kms. Race Report
Earth and the Pescarolo Sport team scored an impressive win in the Le Mans Endurance Series Suzuka 1000 kilometers. After a brilliant drive while fighting off challenges from Dark Elites Oreca Audi and Mulsannes Zytek, crossing the line just 18 second ahead of Mulsanne.
The entry list was disappointing to the organizers, as only five top-line LMP1 prototypes made the trip to the Far East. However, included in that list was the Le Mans winning team and the teams that had won every LMES race this year. So while the entry was thin, the quality of both the teams and drivers was high, raising everyones expectations of a great race.
LMES Suzuka 1000 kms. Entry List
2. IforceV8 Champion Racing (USA) Audi R8 3.6t (M)
4. Dark Elite Audi Playstation Team Oreca (F) Audi R8 3.6t (M)
15. Mulsanne Zytek Engineering (GB) Zytek 04S 3.4a (M)
16. Earth Pescarolo Sport (F) Pescarolo C60 Evo Judd 5.0a (M)
17. ls2_297 Pescarolo Sport (F) Pescarolo C60 Evo Judd 5.0a (M)
After four practice/qualifying sessions, it was no surprise that an Audi R8 took the pole position. IforceV8, driving the No. 2 Champion Racing Audi R8, set the quickest time with a 134.012. Second on the grid was Earth, in the No. 16 Pescarolo Judd, just over a second off pole. Mulsanne took third on the grid in the No. 15 Zytek, while Dark Elite and ls2_297 would have to start from the back of the grid after encountering problems during practice.
LMES Suzuka 1000 kms. Qualifying Results
1. 2. IforceV8 Champion Audi R8 (M) 134.012
2. 16. Earth Pescarolo C60 Evo Judd (M) 135.172 +1.160
3. 15. Mulsanne Zytek 04S (M) 137.037 +3.025
4. 4. Dark Elite Oreca Audi R8 (M) no time
5. 17. ls2_297 Pescarolo C60 Evo Judd (M) no time
Race day dawned with a beautiful blue sky and a moderate but enthusiastic crowd. As the cars were pushed to their grid positions, the excitement level increased, as the drivers knew they would have to put in quick, consistent lap times and avoid spins and contact with the slower GT cars if they were to have a chance at victory.
After one pace lap, the Nissan Skyline GT-R pace car pulled into the pits and the field began their 1000 kilometer journey. IforceV8 took advantage of his pole position to lead into the first turn, followed by Earth and Mulsanne. Meanwhile, at the back of the grid, Dark Elite made contact with a GT2 Porsche at the first corner. Both continued, none the worse for wear. Unfortunately, the first lap would also claim a victim, as ls2_297s Pescarolo pulled off the circuit, its Judd engine dead. He would become the first retirement of the race.
At the end of lap 1, IforceV8 flashed across the start/finish line, followed closely by Earth and Mulsanne. Dark Elite had made his way up to middle of the field, passing slower GT cars with ease, the contact with the GT2 Porsche at the first turn having no adverse effect on his performance. The top three cars, still tightly bunched, started to pull a gap over the rest of the field.
The early laps were fast and furious as the top three battled for position as Dark Elite continued to pass slower cars, trying to catch the leaders. Things became even more intense when the LMP1 cars began lapping slower cars. On lap three, Mulsanne put two wheels off the tarmac at the exit of Spoon Curve. No harm done, except for some dust on the visors of following cars.
The first round of pit stops started on lap 8, when Dark Elite pitted the Oreca Audi from 4th to change his R2/R1 tires. On the same lap, Mulsanne had a 360 degree spin at the first corner, losing only a few positions but continuing. Two laps later, IforceV8 brought his leading Champion Audi into the pits to change his R2/R2 tires, followed by Mulsanne in the Zytek, to change his R2/R2 tires. Earth, in the Pescarolo, assumed the lead after having a sideways moment at the 130R.
Mulsanne spun on cold tires at the hairpin, losing more time to the leaders. Three laps later, Earth dodged a huge bullet when passing a lapped GT1 car around the outside at the 130R corner. The Ferrari lost control and hit the Pescarolo, sending Earth into the tire wall. Thankfully, only the nose and headlights of the car were damaged and were replaced, along with new tires, when Earth pitted on the next lap. He rejoined in fourth.
Mulsanne was uncomfortable with the R2/R1 combination and after several close moments, he thought he felt a vibration in the car, so he pitted to change to R1 tires on all four corners. IforceV8 continued to lead, while the troubles for Earth and Mulsanne promoted Dark Elite to 2nd position.
However, the race changed on lap 20, when IforceV8, trying to stretch his pit stop window too far, blew the right rear tire at 130R. The Champion Audi turned sharp left then right as IforceV8 turned into the slide. The car took off to the right and crashed heavily into the tire wall. All four corners of the car were destroyed and the car became airborne for a moment. Pieces of carbon fiber littered the accident scene. Thankfully, IforceV8 climbed out of the car under his own power. He was taken to the circuits hospital for a precautionary check-up, but sustained no injuries.
The accident brought out the Safety Car as the destroyed Champion Audi was hauled away and the accident scene cleared of debris. Dark Elite took over the lead of the race, followed by Earth and Mulsanne. However, during the Safety Car period, Dark Elite pitted, promoting Earth to the lead.
When the green flag came out several laps later, Mulsanne was working his way through the lapped traffic when he tried to go around the outside of a GT2 TVR at the left corner after the Esses. He lost traction on the dirty part of the circuit and spun into the gravel trap.
The next round of stops came when Earth pitted from the lead on lap 29, followed one lap later by Mulsanne and three laps later by Dark Elite. Already, the tone of the race was being set with Dark Elite being the fastest, but having to pit more often than his rivals.
Lap 43 marked one quarter of the race distance, with Earths Pescarolo in the lead by a few seconds over Dark Elites Oreca Audi. Mulsanne was already almost 40 second back in third position.
Race Standings at Lap 43:
1. 16. Earth Pescarolo C60 Evo Judd (M) 43 Laps / 1:1755.827
2. 4. Dark Elite Oreca Audi R8 (M) 43 Laps / no time
3. 15. Mulsanne Zytek 04S (M) 43 Laps / 1:1834.531
NC. 2. IforceV8 Champion Audi R8 (M) 20 laps / Accident
NC. 17. ls2_297 Pescarolo C60 Evo Judd (M) 0 laps / Engine
Mulsanne pitted on lap 45 and handed the Zytek over to his co-driver. The team also changed from R1/R1 to R2/R1.
The first two cars in the race, Earth and Dark Elite, pitted together on lap 58. It became a battle of the crews between two very accomplished teams, Pescarolo and Oreca. Dark Elite had a slightly quicker stop and since he had come in just behind Earth, the two accelerated out the pits side-by-side, with neither willing to give an inch. The crowd was on its feet as the two cars made slight contact at the first corner, with Earth keeping the lead.
Meanwhile, Mulsannes co-driver was not only slower, but was also turning in a similarly error-filled performance, spinning at the Spoon Curve on laps 60, 62 and 64, each time losing 10 seconds. The mistakes and slower lap times would allow the two leaders to pull away by several seconds per lap. He would to a triple stint and then be replaced in the seat by Mulsanne.
Lap 71 would see Earth pit from the lead, changing his R2 tires. A lap later, Dark Elite pitted and handed the Audi over to his co-driver. As was the case with most of the co-drivers, the Oreca Audi began turning in slower lap times, but stretched the pit stop window by a few laps.
Mulsanne called his Zytek in on lap 80 and replaced his co-driver in the car. The team also changed back to R1 tires all around. However, the time out of the car must have had some effect, since on his out-lap, he missed his braking for the final chicane and went off. Three laps later, he would do a half-spin in the Spoon Curve, going through the grass on the inside of the corner to rejoin the track.
Lap 86 was the halfway point of the race. Earth continued to lead over Dark Elite and Mulsanne.
Race Standings at Lap 86:
1. 16. Earth Pescarolo C60 Evo Judd (M) 86 Laps / 2:3718.449
2. 4. Dark Elite Oreca Audi R8 (M) 86 Laps / no time
3. 15. Mulsanne Zytek 04S (M) 86 Laps / 2:4033.756
NC. 2. IforceV8 Champion Audi R8 (M) 20 laps / Accident
NC. 17. ls2_297 Pescarolo C60 Evo Judd (M) 0 laps / Engine
On the next lap, Earth spun after contact with a GT1 Viper in the Esses. No damage was done to either car, but the time lost from the spin and resulting pit stop allowed Dark Elite to regain the lead of the race. The positions reversed when Dark Elites co-driver pitted on lap 94.
Lap 105 would see Dark Elite call the Audi into the pits for tires, fuel and a driver change. DE was feeling refreshed after a good meal and some rest during his co-drivers stint.
The last person to hand over his car to his co-driver was Earth. After almost three and a half hours behind the wheel, he would pit on lap 114 to allow his co-driver to take over. The Pescarolo team changed from R1/R1 to R2/R1 to give more grip on the slippery track. Things didnt get off to a good start, as the Pescarolo spun on laps 119 and 122, each time losing 20 seconds.
This allowed Dark Elite and Mulsanne the opportunity to make up time on the lead car. The Audi driver did his part, setting the races fastest lap on lap 120 at 138.523.
However, five laps later, the race again changed dramatically as the Oreca Audi slowed out of the Spoon Curve, coasted through the 130R and finally stopped in the run-off area before the Chicane. A dejected Dark Elite climbed from the cockpit, shoulders slumped, knowing he could have won. After hitching a ride back to the pit area, he explained the reason for the cars retirement.
We must be cursed here. On the back straight, when I was driving flat-out in fourth gear at 155mph, the ECU chip malfunctioned, causing the gearbox to shift into second gear to devastating effect The cars engine suddenly had to cope with 150mph in a gear the could only reach 80, and the rev-limiter was not in operation due to my preference. The engine suddenly screamed at thousands of rpm too high, and then it went silent. The engine blew.
The rare retirement of an Audi promoted Mulsanne and the Zytek to 2nd overall. With just one-quarter of the race to go, the Pescarolo continued to lead over the Zytek. However, with Mulsanne back in the Zytek and the Pescarolo still in the hands of Earths co-driver, the gap between the leaders began to shrink. The Zytek took several second per lap out of the lead, regaining the time lost earlier, when its co-driver was behind the wheel.
Race Standings at Lap 129:
1. 16. Earth Pescarolo C60 Evo Judd (M) 129 Laps / 3:5820.800
2. 15. Mulsanne Zytek 04S (M) 129 Laps / 3:5936.308
NC. 4. Dark Elite Oreca Audi R8 (M) 125 Laps / Engine
NC. 2. IforceV8 Champion Audi R8 (M) 20 laps / Accident
NC. 17. ls2_297 Pescarolo C60 Evo Judd (M) 0 laps / Engine
After a double stint, the Pescarolo was called into the pits on lap 146 for tires, fuel and a driver change. Earth replaced his co-driver in the seat, rested and ready for the final 26 laps. The pit stop allowed Mulsanne to close within several seconds of the lead.
The gap continued to vary, as Mulsanne made his final pit stop on lap 156 and Earth making his final stop on lap 160, changing to R2 tires on the front. Everyone was hoping for a close fight to the finish, but it was not to be. Earth was absolutely flying, turning in 144-145 laps and even setting his fastest lap with only a lap to go. Mulsanne, with his R1 tires, was unable to respond.
After 172 laps and 1,000 kilometers of hard-fought racing, Earth took the checkered flag for a brilliant and well-deserved win. Mulsanne finished second, just 18 seconds behind, close but not close enough. Such was the pace of the LMP1 cars that the closest GT1 competitor finished some 22 laps behind the winners.
LMES Suzuka 1000 kms. Official Race Results
1. 16. Earth Pescarolo C60 Evo Judd (M) 172 laps / 5:2033.832
2. 15. Mulsanne Zytek 04S (M) 172 laps / 5:2051.139
NC. 4. Dark Elite Oreca Audi R8 (M) 125 laps / Engine
NC. 2. IforceV8 Champion Audi R8 (M) 20 laps / Accident
NC. 17. ls2_297 Pescarolo C60 Evo (M) 0 laps / Engine
As the cars pulled into Parc Ferme, the two protagonists climbed from their cars and offered a handshake and a pat on the helmet for a hard-fought and well-run race. The finishers climbed the steps to the podium, where the beautiful trophies were presented and the national anthems played. As the champagne was sprayed and consumed by the tired drivers, Dark Elite stood below the podium and while disappointed with his horrible luck he had a huge grin on his face and two fingers in the air at Earth, in the best Michael Delaney style. Of course, Earth and Mulsanne wiped the champagne from their eyes and responded with their own two-finger salute, huge grins on their faces as well.
LMES Suzuka 1000 kms. Race Report
Earth and the Pescarolo Sport team scored an impressive win in the Le Mans Endurance Series Suzuka 1000 kilometers. After a brilliant drive while fighting off challenges from Dark Elites Oreca Audi and Mulsannes Zytek, crossing the line just 18 second ahead of Mulsanne.
The entry list was disappointing to the organizers, as only five top-line LMP1 prototypes made the trip to the Far East. However, included in that list was the Le Mans winning team and the teams that had won every LMES race this year. So while the entry was thin, the quality of both the teams and drivers was high, raising everyones expectations of a great race.
LMES Suzuka 1000 kms. Entry List
2. IforceV8 Champion Racing (USA) Audi R8 3.6t (M)
4. Dark Elite Audi Playstation Team Oreca (F) Audi R8 3.6t (M)
15. Mulsanne Zytek Engineering (GB) Zytek 04S 3.4a (M)
16. Earth Pescarolo Sport (F) Pescarolo C60 Evo Judd 5.0a (M)
17. ls2_297 Pescarolo Sport (F) Pescarolo C60 Evo Judd 5.0a (M)
After four practice/qualifying sessions, it was no surprise that an Audi R8 took the pole position. IforceV8, driving the No. 2 Champion Racing Audi R8, set the quickest time with a 134.012. Second on the grid was Earth, in the No. 16 Pescarolo Judd, just over a second off pole. Mulsanne took third on the grid in the No. 15 Zytek, while Dark Elite and ls2_297 would have to start from the back of the grid after encountering problems during practice.
LMES Suzuka 1000 kms. Qualifying Results
1. 2. IforceV8 Champion Audi R8 (M) 134.012
2. 16. Earth Pescarolo C60 Evo Judd (M) 135.172 +1.160
3. 15. Mulsanne Zytek 04S (M) 137.037 +3.025
4. 4. Dark Elite Oreca Audi R8 (M) no time
5. 17. ls2_297 Pescarolo C60 Evo Judd (M) no time
Race day dawned with a beautiful blue sky and a moderate but enthusiastic crowd. As the cars were pushed to their grid positions, the excitement level increased, as the drivers knew they would have to put in quick, consistent lap times and avoid spins and contact with the slower GT cars if they were to have a chance at victory.
After one pace lap, the Nissan Skyline GT-R pace car pulled into the pits and the field began their 1000 kilometer journey. IforceV8 took advantage of his pole position to lead into the first turn, followed by Earth and Mulsanne. Meanwhile, at the back of the grid, Dark Elite made contact with a GT2 Porsche at the first corner. Both continued, none the worse for wear. Unfortunately, the first lap would also claim a victim, as ls2_297s Pescarolo pulled off the circuit, its Judd engine dead. He would become the first retirement of the race.
At the end of lap 1, IforceV8 flashed across the start/finish line, followed closely by Earth and Mulsanne. Dark Elite had made his way up to middle of the field, passing slower GT cars with ease, the contact with the GT2 Porsche at the first turn having no adverse effect on his performance. The top three cars, still tightly bunched, started to pull a gap over the rest of the field.
The early laps were fast and furious as the top three battled for position as Dark Elite continued to pass slower cars, trying to catch the leaders. Things became even more intense when the LMP1 cars began lapping slower cars. On lap three, Mulsanne put two wheels off the tarmac at the exit of Spoon Curve. No harm done, except for some dust on the visors of following cars.
The first round of pit stops started on lap 8, when Dark Elite pitted the Oreca Audi from 4th to change his R2/R1 tires. On the same lap, Mulsanne had a 360 degree spin at the first corner, losing only a few positions but continuing. Two laps later, IforceV8 brought his leading Champion Audi into the pits to change his R2/R2 tires, followed by Mulsanne in the Zytek, to change his R2/R2 tires. Earth, in the Pescarolo, assumed the lead after having a sideways moment at the 130R.
Mulsanne spun on cold tires at the hairpin, losing more time to the leaders. Three laps later, Earth dodged a huge bullet when passing a lapped GT1 car around the outside at the 130R corner. The Ferrari lost control and hit the Pescarolo, sending Earth into the tire wall. Thankfully, only the nose and headlights of the car were damaged and were replaced, along with new tires, when Earth pitted on the next lap. He rejoined in fourth.
Mulsanne was uncomfortable with the R2/R1 combination and after several close moments, he thought he felt a vibration in the car, so he pitted to change to R1 tires on all four corners. IforceV8 continued to lead, while the troubles for Earth and Mulsanne promoted Dark Elite to 2nd position.
However, the race changed on lap 20, when IforceV8, trying to stretch his pit stop window too far, blew the right rear tire at 130R. The Champion Audi turned sharp left then right as IforceV8 turned into the slide. The car took off to the right and crashed heavily into the tire wall. All four corners of the car were destroyed and the car became airborne for a moment. Pieces of carbon fiber littered the accident scene. Thankfully, IforceV8 climbed out of the car under his own power. He was taken to the circuits hospital for a precautionary check-up, but sustained no injuries.
The accident brought out the Safety Car as the destroyed Champion Audi was hauled away and the accident scene cleared of debris. Dark Elite took over the lead of the race, followed by Earth and Mulsanne. However, during the Safety Car period, Dark Elite pitted, promoting Earth to the lead.
When the green flag came out several laps later, Mulsanne was working his way through the lapped traffic when he tried to go around the outside of a GT2 TVR at the left corner after the Esses. He lost traction on the dirty part of the circuit and spun into the gravel trap.
The next round of stops came when Earth pitted from the lead on lap 29, followed one lap later by Mulsanne and three laps later by Dark Elite. Already, the tone of the race was being set with Dark Elite being the fastest, but having to pit more often than his rivals.
Lap 43 marked one quarter of the race distance, with Earths Pescarolo in the lead by a few seconds over Dark Elites Oreca Audi. Mulsanne was already almost 40 second back in third position.
Race Standings at Lap 43:
1. 16. Earth Pescarolo C60 Evo Judd (M) 43 Laps / 1:1755.827
2. 4. Dark Elite Oreca Audi R8 (M) 43 Laps / no time
3. 15. Mulsanne Zytek 04S (M) 43 Laps / 1:1834.531
NC. 2. IforceV8 Champion Audi R8 (M) 20 laps / Accident
NC. 17. ls2_297 Pescarolo C60 Evo Judd (M) 0 laps / Engine
Mulsanne pitted on lap 45 and handed the Zytek over to his co-driver. The team also changed from R1/R1 to R2/R1.
The first two cars in the race, Earth and Dark Elite, pitted together on lap 58. It became a battle of the crews between two very accomplished teams, Pescarolo and Oreca. Dark Elite had a slightly quicker stop and since he had come in just behind Earth, the two accelerated out the pits side-by-side, with neither willing to give an inch. The crowd was on its feet as the two cars made slight contact at the first corner, with Earth keeping the lead.
Meanwhile, Mulsannes co-driver was not only slower, but was also turning in a similarly error-filled performance, spinning at the Spoon Curve on laps 60, 62 and 64, each time losing 10 seconds. The mistakes and slower lap times would allow the two leaders to pull away by several seconds per lap. He would to a triple stint and then be replaced in the seat by Mulsanne.
Lap 71 would see Earth pit from the lead, changing his R2 tires. A lap later, Dark Elite pitted and handed the Audi over to his co-driver. As was the case with most of the co-drivers, the Oreca Audi began turning in slower lap times, but stretched the pit stop window by a few laps.
Mulsanne called his Zytek in on lap 80 and replaced his co-driver in the car. The team also changed back to R1 tires all around. However, the time out of the car must have had some effect, since on his out-lap, he missed his braking for the final chicane and went off. Three laps later, he would do a half-spin in the Spoon Curve, going through the grass on the inside of the corner to rejoin the track.
Lap 86 was the halfway point of the race. Earth continued to lead over Dark Elite and Mulsanne.
Race Standings at Lap 86:
1. 16. Earth Pescarolo C60 Evo Judd (M) 86 Laps / 2:3718.449
2. 4. Dark Elite Oreca Audi R8 (M) 86 Laps / no time
3. 15. Mulsanne Zytek 04S (M) 86 Laps / 2:4033.756
NC. 2. IforceV8 Champion Audi R8 (M) 20 laps / Accident
NC. 17. ls2_297 Pescarolo C60 Evo Judd (M) 0 laps / Engine
On the next lap, Earth spun after contact with a GT1 Viper in the Esses. No damage was done to either car, but the time lost from the spin and resulting pit stop allowed Dark Elite to regain the lead of the race. The positions reversed when Dark Elites co-driver pitted on lap 94.
Lap 105 would see Dark Elite call the Audi into the pits for tires, fuel and a driver change. DE was feeling refreshed after a good meal and some rest during his co-drivers stint.
The last person to hand over his car to his co-driver was Earth. After almost three and a half hours behind the wheel, he would pit on lap 114 to allow his co-driver to take over. The Pescarolo team changed from R1/R1 to R2/R1 to give more grip on the slippery track. Things didnt get off to a good start, as the Pescarolo spun on laps 119 and 122, each time losing 20 seconds.
This allowed Dark Elite and Mulsanne the opportunity to make up time on the lead car. The Audi driver did his part, setting the races fastest lap on lap 120 at 138.523.
However, five laps later, the race again changed dramatically as the Oreca Audi slowed out of the Spoon Curve, coasted through the 130R and finally stopped in the run-off area before the Chicane. A dejected Dark Elite climbed from the cockpit, shoulders slumped, knowing he could have won. After hitching a ride back to the pit area, he explained the reason for the cars retirement.
We must be cursed here. On the back straight, when I was driving flat-out in fourth gear at 155mph, the ECU chip malfunctioned, causing the gearbox to shift into second gear to devastating effect The cars engine suddenly had to cope with 150mph in a gear the could only reach 80, and the rev-limiter was not in operation due to my preference. The engine suddenly screamed at thousands of rpm too high, and then it went silent. The engine blew.
The rare retirement of an Audi promoted Mulsanne and the Zytek to 2nd overall. With just one-quarter of the race to go, the Pescarolo continued to lead over the Zytek. However, with Mulsanne back in the Zytek and the Pescarolo still in the hands of Earths co-driver, the gap between the leaders began to shrink. The Zytek took several second per lap out of the lead, regaining the time lost earlier, when its co-driver was behind the wheel.
Race Standings at Lap 129:
1. 16. Earth Pescarolo C60 Evo Judd (M) 129 Laps / 3:5820.800
2. 15. Mulsanne Zytek 04S (M) 129 Laps / 3:5936.308
NC. 4. Dark Elite Oreca Audi R8 (M) 125 Laps / Engine
NC. 2. IforceV8 Champion Audi R8 (M) 20 laps / Accident
NC. 17. ls2_297 Pescarolo C60 Evo Judd (M) 0 laps / Engine
After a double stint, the Pescarolo was called into the pits on lap 146 for tires, fuel and a driver change. Earth replaced his co-driver in the seat, rested and ready for the final 26 laps. The pit stop allowed Mulsanne to close within several seconds of the lead.
The gap continued to vary, as Mulsanne made his final pit stop on lap 156 and Earth making his final stop on lap 160, changing to R2 tires on the front. Everyone was hoping for a close fight to the finish, but it was not to be. Earth was absolutely flying, turning in 144-145 laps and even setting his fastest lap with only a lap to go. Mulsanne, with his R1 tires, was unable to respond.
After 172 laps and 1,000 kilometers of hard-fought racing, Earth took the checkered flag for a brilliant and well-deserved win. Mulsanne finished second, just 18 seconds behind, close but not close enough. Such was the pace of the LMP1 cars that the closest GT1 competitor finished some 22 laps behind the winners.
LMES Suzuka 1000 kms. Official Race Results
1. 16. Earth Pescarolo C60 Evo Judd (M) 172 laps / 5:2033.832
2. 15. Mulsanne Zytek 04S (M) 172 laps / 5:2051.139
NC. 4. Dark Elite Oreca Audi R8 (M) 125 laps / Engine
NC. 2. IforceV8 Champion Audi R8 (M) 20 laps / Accident
NC. 17. ls2_297 Pescarolo C60 Evo (M) 0 laps / Engine
As the cars pulled into Parc Ferme, the two protagonists climbed from their cars and offered a handshake and a pat on the helmet for a hard-fought and well-run race. The finishers climbed the steps to the podium, where the beautiful trophies were presented and the national anthems played. As the champagne was sprayed and consumed by the tired drivers, Dark Elite stood below the podium and while disappointed with his horrible luck he had a huge grin on his face and two fingers in the air at Earth, in the best Michael Delaney style. Of course, Earth and Mulsanne wiped the champagne from their eyes and responded with their own two-finger salute, huge grins on their faces as well.
- 513
maybe you should think of a career as an author. Sorry i couldnt run the race, with exams in australia happening this time of year it makes it difficult to run endurance races on GT4.... next time i will be in for sure. Thanks for including me in the write up anyway.. clever thinking with the engine on lap one. Congrats to the two that completed the race... 18secs is a small margin after 1000km!
Really stoked that you guys liked it.
It's okay, I understand there are more pressing things in life than GT. That's what took me so long to do the race report. Real life keeps interrupting.
I really should have done this race over the summer, when people have more free time to devote to such an endeavor. So perhaps we can look forward to the second running of the Suzuka 1000 kms. in Summer 2006? (Is there a "hopeful" smilie?)
Edit: BTW, I've got a race idea that I will be announcing in a few days. Trust me, it's much shorter than this one. Hope you guys will sign up. (It won't be for LMP cars, so hopefully there won't be any conflict between my single race and Earth's series.)
It's okay, I understand there are more pressing things in life than GT. That's what took me so long to do the race report. Real life keeps interrupting.
I really should have done this race over the summer, when people have more free time to devote to such an endeavor. So perhaps we can look forward to the second running of the Suzuka 1000 kms. in Summer 2006? (Is there a "hopeful" smilie?)
Edit: BTW, I've got a race idea that I will be announcing in a few days. Trust me, it's much shorter than this one. Hope you guys will sign up. (It won't be for LMP cars, so hopefully there won't be any conflict between my single race and Earth's series.)
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