Andy Jaenen about the sessions so far

During qualifying we had an interesting conversation with Andy Jaenen – Zolder track regular and owner of the popular local WHEELS café. He probably has personal experience on almost happening around the Zolder track. "I did take part as a pilot, then as a team manager. So now I'm running the WHEELS café. Don't underestimate the latter one. I can assure you this is the most demanding job in my entire motorsports career. Last year I had some 9 hours sleep... over the entire race week. As a team manager I was dealing with 4 pilots and some 10 team members. Now it's personnel, teams, pilots and most of all customers!"

Jaenen tells us the number of spectators has been pretty consistent throughout the years. "The motorsports fans keep coming back every year. The Zolder 24 Hours really is a tradition for them. The occasional visitors strongly depend on the number of teams... More teams equals more guests. Also the teams have found their way to the WHEELS. Weheras some 40% of the teams used to be here for drinks after the race, it's now up to 80%. I suppose it's all about our unique atmosphere and the the way fans can really approach their beloved pilots."

"For the race I'm expecting a nice battle between the GLPK and SRT Corvettes. I didn't expect SRT to take the pole. So a very interesting start is almost guaranteed! Moreover I think the Eurotech team did a great job closing the gap with the Corvettes. I suppose they will be able to do so as well during the race. The most important outsider will be the CEO / PSI Experience Porsche GT3 RSR. It's a consistent driver line-up and a fast, reliable car."

For those visiting the 24 Hours of Zolder: WHEELS will be offering live broadcasting on two big screens in a very comfortable atmosphere. Also the Belgian Corvette club will be present with some 50 cars, including the spare C5-R from Selleslagh Racing Team!

VZW 24u.be - Jan-Frans Lemmens on Friday 25 August 2006 at 17:10.