Endurance racing - Definition

Endurance racing can refer to races involving persons running in events such as marathons or triathlons, long cross-country skiing events, the racing of horses or other animals, or motorsport. As contemplated in this article, the discussion will be limited to motorsport.

Endurance racing is a test of the durability of equipment used to race, and to a lesser extent, the drivers as well. The most famous automobile endurance race is the 24 hours of Le Mans, a road racing event held annually in Le Mans, France. Rather than racing a set distance of miles or kilometers, the stated purpose is to drive the vehicle the longest possible distance over the course during the stated period of time. Most endurance races are for either six, twelve, or twenty-four hours over road racing courses. At one time driver endurance was a huge factor in that persons would attempt to complete a twenty-four hour race by themselves, and for many years the standard driving team was two drivers; in modern times solo driving is not permitted and the standard team for a twenty-four hour race consists of three drivers. There are also motorcycle endurance races.

The most famous U.S. endurance races at this time are probably the twelve hour one conducted annually at Sebring, Florida and the Rolex 24 Hours at Daytona.