1956 24 Hour Le Mans Race Poster-COPY
(0000-2733-COPY)

by Geo Ham

Blue car leads the race around the track.

First held in 1922, the 24-hour race at Le Mans was organized by the Automobile Club d'Ouest, with the help of auto-racing journalist Charles Faroux who wrote the rules. It became a huge success, as the spectators indulged in round-the-clock partying with music, dancing and drinking. For the drivers, it was a grueling test of stamina, yet all felt they hadn't earned their spurs until they had tried it.