As the Tokai University Courage-Oreca YGK, seen at Le Mans last June, is on the entry list released last week by the ACO, we asked a few questions to Professor Yoshimasa Hayashi, Head of the project, and he has kindly agreed to answer them.

Professor, have you done some work since last June on the Courage and is it already to the full 2009 regulations?

“We are improving the car according to next three items :
- Improvement of engine
- Improvement of aerodynamics characteristics
- Reduction of weight”

Have you been testing with the car since Le Mans? If not, where and when will you do?

“We will be testing with the car at Fuji Speedway in July”

Will the Courage have the same bodywork than last year, or will it have your own bodywork?

“The bodywork will be the same basically. But we are improving it according to the aerodynamic changes and to the reduction of weight.”

Have you made other changes on the car? In what areas?

“We are improving the inner air flow. New light ducts are promissible. We can use now Courage’s original rear cowl.”

Has the YGK engine been improved? What is its output by now?

“The engine is now more powerful -600 hps- and will have too a better response time.”

Have you already chosen your drivers for the Asian Le Mans Series?

“Drivers are not determined except Mr.Shogo.Mitsuyama.”

Have you some racing projects for 2010?

“We will participate in Le Mans and Asian series. If possible, we wish to participate in Spa 1000km. I am very happy to race in the Asian Le Mans and to find the Courage-Oreca team in the entry list as well.”

We do thank Professor Hayashi for his kindness.

Claude Foubert