Bob Akin is a name synonymous with American sports car racing, and most notably the IMSA series. He won numerous races and was awarded several accolades for his contribution to the racing world as a Pro-Am driver. The Bob Akin Award is given to the best Pro-Am driver in the IMSA GTD class and carries an invite to the most famous sports car race in the world.Akin is an inspiration to many drivers, including Richard Heistand, a seasoned race car driver and recipient of Bob Akin Award, who is gearing up for his debut at the famed 24 Hours of Le Mans in France.

Richard Heistand has been waiting for this moment since a very early age. The moment he got behind the wheel, Richard knew that motorsport was his calling. Richard will take on Le Mans in a Ferrari with British team JMW Motorsport.  This will be Heistand's first opportunity to tackle the track also known as La Sarthe for the round-the-clock race. 

Richard shares, "24 hours of Le Mans is undoubtedly the most famous car race in the world. It is quite an honor and privilege for me to be a part of it. My team and I are prepping up not only to participate but also to win." He adds, "24 Hours of Le Mans will be a true test of endurance and efficiency. In all these years of racing, it will be the first time I would challenge my mind, body, and skills to such a degree." Previously, he has participated in 12 Hours of Sebring, Petit Le Mans, 24 Hours of Daytona, and many more. These races are all great preparation for what Heistand will face at Le Mans, but no challenge is quite like the one that man and machine face at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Some of the most successful drivers at 24 Hours of Le Mans have been Tom Kristensen of Denmark, Jacky Ickx of Belgium, and Derek Bell of the United Kingdom, among other mavens. Whether or not Richard Heistand will join the high ranks is something only those 24 hours will tell.