Gade, 35, from South Harrow near London, works for the “factory” Audi Sport team.
The car she was responsible for, a diesel-engined Audi R18 TDI, driven by Benoît Treluyer, Marcel Fässler and André Lotterer won the 79th running of the legendary race last weekend.
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| Gade |
She “masterminded” the German prestige car manufacturer’s 10th win since 1999 from the pit-wall throughout the race. Audi raced its latest single turbo diesel V6 Coupé featuring the company’s ultra-lightweight technology at Le Mans – a race regarded by many as the world’s toughest motor race.
“I still can’t believe what’s happened and I don’t think it will sink in for a few weeks,” said the former University of Manchester student.
“I’m responsible for the final decisions on the racecar," said Gade.
"If a part on the car moves, changes temperature or changes pressure, I’m logging it," she said, adding that she then used the information to advise the driver what he needs to do next.
“I’m the main contact to the driver. The driver-engineer psychology has to be strong and trust plays a vital part in gaining performance. A driver performs better knowing his or her engineer is in control of the crew, the car and race which means they can focus on their driving. One miscalculation or decision that is waivered over can be the difference between winning or losing the race. And at Le Mans, that just isn't an option.”
