Official timekeeper and sponsorThe Tour Auto 2011: Congratulations to the Audemars Piguet teams
On Saturday, April 16th, the 20th edition of the Tour Auto ended on a high note on the shores of the Atlantic. Audemars Piguet was official timekeeper and sponsor, and was also actively involved in the race, with six cars enrolled: four in the regularity rally and two in the main competition. All arrived successfully in Biarritz, the final destination for this year's race, after a sunny five-day adventure through Poitiers, Objat, Bordeaux and Pau.
Team AP drivers and co-drivers put in an impressive performance, with Pierre Le Gloahec and Pierre Doize finishing second in the performance index in the Jaguar Mk1, also driving for the Mécénat Chirurgie Cardiaque association. Elsewhere in the competition category, Philippe Liechti and Carolyn Twaites brought their Porsche 911 in to an impressive ninth place overall. The four teams that entered the regularity rally were able to make the most of the scenic route throughout the week, especially the spectacular finish through the Pyrenees. All distinguished themselves with their enthusiasm and sportsmanship behind the wheel of the Jaguar XK120, AC Bristol, Alpine A110, Porsche 356 and Porsche 914/6 for the 20th edition of the Tour Auto, perfectly embodying the Gentleman Driver spirit cherished by the Manufacture.
Their performance was a credit to the new Millenary Tour Auto Chronograph, which the drivers showcased over the five days of the race. This outstanding timepiece immediately captures the world of classic car racing and features state-of-the-art workings, including a high-precision chronograph and a balance beating at 21,600 vibrations per hour.
At the traditional evening trophy presentation, Arnaud Vidal, Managing Director of Audemars Piguet France, took the stage to present an award to the fastest driver in the groups category - Paul Knapfield in the Ligier JS2 - and the winners of the regularity rally - John Ruston and Jeremy Haylock in the Porsche 356 Speedster.