Troy Cooper writes.
We had purchased tickets to view the race within the “Champions Club – Blanc”, located at turns 13/14 (final chicane prior to the finish line – at the Wall of Champions).
We had the privilege of a paddock tour allowing us, through the course of the weekend – to have met most drivers on the grid. (lots of other pics).
Our particular good fortune was that our hotel was next door to where the Aston Martin F1 Team was staying – at the lounge / bar where we frequented. We struck up conversations with several gentlemen seated next to us (were not dressed in any team branding) …. Turned out they were the Aston Martin F1 “Finance Director” and Aston Martins F1 “Team Race Coordinator”.
Unprompted, through conversation, they graciously offered to provide a private tour of the Aston Martin Team garage for our family. We toured the entire garage in detail, meeting many more team members, getting up close with the engines, floor/wing & tyre specialists within the garage. They gifted us hats signed by both drivers. Attached picture(s) include our son (Ethan) walking with both Drivers through the Paddock.
I have a couple of cool videos as well – but too large to post here.
The team members were amazingly friendly and gracious with their time. It was “once in a lifetime access” which we were very thankful for and enjoyed greatly. It was great to support the team/brand and in turn, receive such kindness and opportunity to see the inner workings of a team at the top of their game.
You are welcome to share with the club members who may be interested in Aston’s F1 team.
Troy Cooper
From left to right: Fernando Alonso, Ethan Cooper, Lance Stroll
(click on these smaller images to see full size.)