Le Mans dream for Dempsey
The modern day incarnation of an American acting heartthrob going to Le Mans is Patrick Dempsey, though he has not travelled here merely to promote his latest movie or TV series.
He is widely recognised worldwide as Dr Derek Shepherd, or Dr “McDreamy” on the American television series Grey’s Anatomy. To racing enthusiasts, he is known for learning and improving the craft of driving.
For Dempsey, racing at Le Mans is the pinnacle of a burgeoning racing career that began only a few years ago.
He’s driven in the Grand-Am KONI Challenge and Rolex Series divisions before, but like his teammates Joe Foster and Don Kitch Jr., this is his first time here.
“It’s been overwhelming,” Dempsey said. “The response was quite special. I was just blown away by the energy of the people. The depth of the photos and history with the fans is remarkable. They are well-prepared.
“I enjoy the camaraderie and fellowship of it all, plus the sounds, the smell, the challenge. Le Mans is very hallowed grounds, and quite magical. My father brought home little Matchboxes and that’s where it all started.”
In his career, the KONI Challenge events in 2006 and 2007 blossomed into a full-time KONI ride, then a transition to the Grand-Am Rolex Series for five races in 2008.
While winning in class is a doubtful proposition, the team is committed to finishing the race to achieve their main goal of raising money for the Seattle Children’s Hospital.
Dempsey added: “To see the goal of raising all this money finally reached, after all the work to this point, is very moving. Racing is more about life’s journey than the race itself. This race does both.”
