Patrick Dempsey was in ebullient form as he looked forward to making his third m Le Mans start today for the Michelin-shod Dempsey Racing Porsche 911 RSR.

After a solid and largely trouble free qualifying session, one of the most recognised faces at Le Mans this year took time out to ponder where he is at as a driver on the international stage.

“I worked hard to get into this racing environment and I think my peers appreciate those efforts. To have someone like Patrick Long (winner at Le Mans in GT in 2004 and GT2 in 2007 as well as ALMS champion in 2005, 2009 and 2010) is certainly a source of inspiration to me. Journalists’ questions have also changed, and I’m happy about that. Before it was: ‘why are you doing this?’ and now it’s: ‘what do you think of this new rule?’ My responses mean something now because I’m a team boss as well. For me, this recognition is important. It’s a big change in terms of credibility!”

Preparation for the Le Mans programe this year has been intense and the physical exertion is reaping instant dividends for the 48-year old from Maine.

“I began much earlier this time. I worked hard on cardio. I’m in much better shape and it makes a big difference. Combining the schedules is certainly not easy which is why I decided to do nothing else but take part in races from the last few months. Driving at the level cannot be improvised and demands time. I’m in a position that allows me to do both driving and acting, but it’s a balancing act. I’ll be back to work for the show in July.”