The 79th Le Mans Week got started with its official racecar inspection on June 6th. This time, the traditional official racecar inspection was held at a temporary location in Jacobin Square while the original Jacobin Promenade venue sits under construction. Official racecar inspection takes place for two days and is an integral part of Le Mans. Not only race fans, but also tourists, neighbours and citizens are all allowed to watch the unique scene.

This year, because of the famous race's proximity to Japan's devastating Tohoku Earthquake, Le Mans 24 Hours organisers the ACO have sent a variety of messages of support to the Japanese. The 20th anniversary of Mazda's Le Mans victory back in 1991 is incorporated into the event's activities. A special parade run for the Mazda 787B is scheduled before the regular drivers' parade winds through the city of Le Mans on Friday. During the parade run, a special 20th anniversary shield-shaped plaque commemorating Mazda' Le Mans victory will be given to all participating drivers. Also, just prior to official qualifying on Thursday, a two full-lap exhibition run is scheduled. Actor/racer Patrick Dempsey will be at the wheel of the Mazda 787B for this event. Thanks to his popularity, many TV crews, not only from France and other European countries, but also the U.S., have come to cover Patrick Dempsey's demo drive. On Friday morning Mazda will be holding an official press conference. Ex-Mazdaspeed racing drivers have been reacquainted and will be attending the conference in front of the media. Just before the start of the race on Saturday, another exhibition run by the Mazda 787B is scheduled. However, the name of the driver who will pilot the car for that run is yet to be announced. We are looking forward to seeing the majestic Mazda 787B run in front of a crowd of more than 100,000 spectators at Le Mans.

After construction is completed on Tuesday, June 7th, the Mazda booth in the race circuit “village” will open. I'll file a report about the booth tomorrow.