The #53 ViperExchange.com, TI Automotive and Riley Motorsports have been named the first reserve on the entry list for the 2015 24 Hours of Le Mans.
The entry in LM GTE AM with an ex-factory SRT Viper will therefore become the first to move up to the entry list proper should any of the confirmed entries drop out.
Jeroen Bleekemolen is the single driver named against the car on the ACO list, as required with the team confirming that should the car eventually be successful in gaining a full entry, Ben Keating would also join the crew.
“It’s an honor to even have this much of a chance to participate in the amazing event that is the 24 Hours of Le Mans,” Keating said. “We are grateful to the ACO for finding room for us on the reserve list, we are a step closer than we were yesterday and hope to have the chance to race at Le Mans in June. If you are a race car driver in professional sports car road racing at any level, the pinnacle of the sport, every driver’s goal has to be racing at Le Mans.”
Bleekemolen, who co-drove to a 2008 LMP2 class victory at Le Mans, also won two GTD races last year with Keating in the IMSA Tudor Championship.
“The 24 Hours of Le Mans is always a highlight on the calendar,” Bleekemolen said. “The atmosphere during race week, and to drive the track itself, is just amazing. I have many great memories of the race but winning there stands out. To be on top of the podium with all the fans in front of you is a special feeling. I hope to be able to get another win at Le Mans.”
