Energie Endurance 91 Horizon Charcot improves day by day. Last season, the team based in the Paris suburbs ran a full FIM World Endurance Championship campaign. “Despite a tight budget, we managed to do the whole championship. Lining up beside the best in the game does wonders for your confidence. It’s also a real challenge, because you’re obviously looking to perform well”, says team manager Yoann Braive. The #91 Kawasaki ZX10-R was 31st overall at the 2018 24H Motos and 15th in Superstock. The result brought the team down to earth with a bump. “We were in the top 20 and then a fall cost us twenty minutes. We were hoping for a better result, but our squad is sturdy”, says Braive.

Despite not finishing the last Bol d’Or, the first round in the 2018-19 FIM EWC, Energie Endurance 91 is approaching the 24H Motos with confidence. “We did some introspection after the Bol d’Or. We’re not giving up. We’re keeping the pressure on. Technically, we’re on top of things and the team has gained valuable experience. We’ll be entering the new Kawasaki ZX-10RR thanks to backing from DSF Moto in Corbeil-Essonnes and Kawasaki France. The average age of the bike’s crew is 26. Kevin Lavainne (29, one Le Mans start), Léo Meunier (21, two Le Mans starts) and Arnaud Curtolo (29, one start) take turns in the saddle of the #91. “We put the team together based on personality. Kevin is a generous rider. He never complains and is reliable fitness-wise. Arnaud had a good season last year, with fifth place in 1000 Promosport. All three are both consistent and fast”, says Yoann Braive. With such a line-up, Energie Endurance 91 is right to aim high. “We are aiming for the top five in Superstock. We have the driving skills and the technical ability to achieve that goal. Our strength lies in our unity. The race can seem thankless, but we know there are ups and downs and our efforts will pay off in the end.”

Energie Endurance 91 Horizon Charcot donates one euro per lap of a 24-hour race to Horizon Charcot towards research into Charcot disease, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a neurogenerative disease. The team raised €800 for the cause in 2018.