AN appearance on the undercard of the 24 Hours of Le Mans’ centenary event means more to Rodney Jane than just his international racing debut.
Jane will race at the legendary circuit next weekend in Porsche Carrera Cup France.
It comes 39 years after his father Bob backed an all-star Australian entry of Peter Brock and Larry Perkins in the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Having won three Bathurst 1000s on the trot (1982-84), Brock and Perkins took on Circuit de la Sarthe in ’84 in a Porsche 956.
They qualified 15th and ran as high as fifth at one point in the race before succumbing to mechanical issues and a subsequent crash.
“This trip for me means more than just driving a race car at Le Mans,” said Jane, a regular in Carrera Cup Australia.
“My father was instrumental in the careers of many racing drivers, including some of the best names in the sport and he played a pivotal role in getting Peter Brock and Larry Perkins to race there 39 years ago in a Porsche in the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
“Two Bathurst legends racing there was massive news at the time and I’d like to think that this trip is a small way to pay homage to that.
“I’m really excited for this adventure. It is really going to mean a lot to myself and the Bob Jane T-Marts business.”
This year marks the 100th anniversary of the inaugural 24 Hours of Le Mans.
