:16:01
The race is open
to six classes of cars--
:16:04
from the smallest
production models
:16:08
to the largest sports
and turbo-type engines--
:16:11
all competing at the same time
on the same circuit.
:16:14
There are 55 cars
and 1 10 drivers
:16:20
representing countries
from all over the world.
:16:23
They will drive day and night,
through sun and rain.
:16:28
Beneath his racing suit,
:16:30
each driver must wear
fireproof underwear
:16:33
capable of withstanding
2,400 degrees Fahrenheit--
:16:38
the temperature of burning
gasoline-- for 15 seconds.
:16:42
His blood type must be indicated
:16:45
on either suit or crash helmet.
:16:48
Each car has two alternating
drivers.
:16:53
No driver may total more
than 14 out of the 24 hours.
:16:59
Each driver must have
at least one hour rest
:17:01
between turns at the wheel.
:17:04
No one may drive more
than four consecutive hours.
:17:19
For the first time
in the history of this race,
:17:22
the running start,
:17:25
with the drivers lined up on
the opposite side of the track
:17:28
then running to their cars
:17:29
at the fall
of the tri-colored flag,
:17:32
tests speed of action
for reasons of safety.
:17:34
This year, the drivers will be
:17:37
securely strapped
into their driving seats
:17:39
prior to the start of the race.
:17:42
Yellow flags and yellow lights
along the circuit
:17:46
indicate the presence
of an accident
:17:49
or as it is called
in the racing world, a "shunt".
:17:54
Yellow means danger.
:17:56
No overtaking.
:17:57
The race will start
4:00 p.m. Saturday,