2026-07-17
Mechanics Take Centre Stage Before Qualifying as Defending Champion Retains 1,000-Metre Run Title
While the drivers were preparing for one of the most important moments of the weekend – qualifying – the Aurum 1006 km powered by Hankook circuit once again turned the spotlight on the people whose work usually goes unnoticed by spectators. On Friday, the 27th edition of the "Volfas Engelman Non-Alcoholic" 1,000-Metre Mechanics' Run took place.
The tradition is as old as the Aurum 1006 km powered by Hankook race itself. It serves as a reminder that victories in motorsport are not earned by drivers alone – behind every successful result stands a team of mechanics working tirelessly to ensure the cars perform flawlessly lap after lap.
This year, more than ten mechanics lined up at the start of the 1,000-metre race. The event took place during the traditional Pit Walk, allowing a large crowd of racing fans to cheer on the competitors.
The fastest runner this year was Emilis Anisimovas from the LIK Racing by KTK team. Second place went to Lukas Samuolis of Baltic Karting Academy, while Laurynas Repečka, representing Porsche Lietuva Racing, completed the podium in third.
"Mechanics usually remain behind the scenes, yet their work often determines the outcome of an entire race. This run is our way of thanking the people who work late into the night, solve problems under pressure and do everything possible to keep the cars fighting for victory," said race organiser Darius Jonušis.
The mechanics' award ceremony on the main stage of the race village served as the perfect introduction to one of the busiest days of the Aurum 1006 km powered by Hankook weekend.
Attention now turns to qualifying, after which the ten fastest teams will battle for the best starting positions in Saturday's main race during the Super Pole shootout.
At the same time, visitors to the racing festival can also enjoy a packed programme of events, including the Orlen Spectators' Slalom, the OlyBet Women's Challenge, Porsche Club Lithuania and Mitjet Baltics sessions on the main circuit, as well as the final rounds of the A.R.S.A. Group Drag Race.
Photos: Vytautas Pilkauskas and Andrius Laucius.