two thrilling rally champions

For the final bouquet of the 28th edition of Sports & Collection – 500 Ferrari against cancer, the cash desks were stormed by spectators yesterday morning. An impressive queue. “Already, on Friday, we had felt this craze and, yesterday, there were more people than on a normal Saturday”, noted Jean-Marie Epaillard, one of the speakers at the event organized on the Val de Vienne circuit in Le Vigeant. A situation that should not happen again in the future. “The arrival of fiber should allow us to set up an online ticket sales system”explained the facilitator.

If the bottom of the air had cooled after a scorching Saturday, the long-awaited Ferrari parade, with the oldest in front to open the parade, accompanied by the Air Force aerobatics, very quickly warmed up the ‘atmosphere. What to impress two former glories of the rallies present at the Alpine stand, Jean-Claude Andruet (82 years old, 1 Rallye Monte-Carlo 1973, 1 Tour de Corse 1974) and Jean Ragnotti (79 years old, 1 Rallye Monte-Carlo 1981, 1 Tour de Corse 1982 and 1984), very popular with fans for autographs or to discuss motorsport.

At 82, Jean-Claude Andruet continues to run

They had never had the opportunity to live this appointment. « It’s amazing to see such a large fleet and the passion of the public here, enthuses Jean-Claude Andruet. I was lucky enough to be able to offer baptisms at the wheel of an Alpine. Me, I had a great time on this circuit and those I took were very happy. I haven’t been idle but it’s for a good cause. »
His aura seems intact as he stopped competing at the highest level in a while. “I think I was generous in the effort and people recognize that. We brought them happiness in a fleeting way and they return it to you with moving testimonies. They say touching things. »
As in his best days, Jean-Claude Andruet puts on his overalls, grabs his helmet and gets ready to get into the seat of his Alpine. “When I have an opportunity, I keep running. Recently, I competed in Le Mans Classic and the Grand Prix de Pau. »

John Ragnotti:
« I have a good rating… »

“He always rolls, the animal, admires his friend Jean Ragnotti, who stopped his career in 1997. Me, I don’t run anymore but I love to discuss, exchange. I was lucky enough to be available this weekend to come here. The set is really very spectacular in a friendly atmosphere. It’s quiet, relaxed. » And he does not sulk his pleasure to be recognized. “I have a good rating…, he laughs. What surprises me are the younger ones. They saw me on video. It is surprising. » If he has reduced his activities due to health problems, one would swear that his stay at the Val de Vienne has given him some energy.