Larbre Competition fought back from early setbacks to score a second place finish at the opening round of the 2013 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), the Six Hours of Silverstone.
The #50 Corvette C6.R, driven by Patrick Bornhauser, Julien Canal and Fernando Rees, had a disappointing qualifying session, only managing to start from fifth due to the ever-changing conditions.
“The increased number of entries and Aston Martin’s arrival meant that the 2013 championship was always going to be competitive, and that indeed looks to be the case after Silverstone.” said Team Manager Jack Leconte. “The unpredictable British weather in April was also an important factor so taking everything into consideration I insisted that the team bear three words in mind: focus, consistency and caution.”
The early stages of their race was just as disappointing as a puncture on the fifth lap caused Canal to fight back from the last position. Bornhauser also suffered another setback as he was called in for a 45 second stop/go penalty after passing a pair of Aston Martins under a full course yellow flag.
Fast driving from the trio, though, lifted them up through the field, with Rees catching up to the 8Star Motorsports Ferrari 458 in the closing stages of the race. With just four minutes left on the clock, contact between the two cars caused a puncture to the #81 Ferrari, handing the #50 Corvette an unexpected second position.
“I am very pleased with the result.” commented Rees. “We were extremely competitive throughout the weekend but only finished fifth fastest in qualifying. I was certain we could finish the race in a better position. The entire team worked hard and to perfection! Congratulations to everyone for such a strong finish. Spa will be even better.”
