With little over a week between now and the 24 Hours of Le Mans I can hardly contain myself. Circuit de la Sarthe is ready for hot lapping action on GTR2, the cars are prepped and I've already made my selection for the "bring your own meat" grill fest. So what's a motorhead to do between now and then? As luck would have it this weekend is the official running of the 24 Hours Nürburgring.

Nicknamed the "Green Hell" by The Flying Scot because of the track's winding nature and the surrounding trees the Nürburgring proper previously consisted of the Nordschleife (Northern Loop) and the southern loop, which was mostly demolished to create the modern GP circuit. After Niki Lauda's fiery crash in 1976 and due to safety concerns, modern F1 cars were no longer allowed on the dangerous northern loop. However today there are still a number of events featuring performance streetcars, such as those in the 24-hour race. The Nordschleife is also open to the public during certain times though many a car has fallen victim to its challenging turns.

You can keep up with the race through the official website. Until then here are two videos featuring the fierce Green Hell.

Lauda's crash

Amateur hour at "the ring"