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40 Facts About Bathurst 1000

Mei Letourneau

Written by Mei Letourneau

Published: 07 Oct 2024

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Source: Supercarxtra.com.au

What makes the Bathurst 1000 so special? This iconic Australian motor racing event, held annually at the Mount Panorama Circuit in Bathurst, New South Wales, has captivated fans for over six decades. Covering a grueling 1,000 kilometers, the race demands unparalleled skill, endurance, and strategy from drivers. Legendary figures like Peter Brock, known as the "King of the Mountain," have left an indelible mark on its history. The fierce rivalry between Ford and Holden adds another layer of excitement. With its unique track layout, including the notorious Conrod Straight, the Bathurst 1000 remains a must-watch spectacle in the world of motorsport.

Key Takeaways:

  • Bathurst 1000, a historic Australian motorsport event, began in 1963 and features a challenging 1,000-kilometer race at Mount Panorama. Legendary drivers, intense rivalries, and unpredictable safety car interventions make it a must-watch for racing fans.
  • The iconic Bathurst 1000 is known for its demanding Mount Panorama circuit, with 23 corners and thrilling lead changes. From record-breaking performances to wildcard entries, this event continues to captivate fans with its rich history and exciting moments.
Table of Contents
01The Origins and Evolution of Bathurst 1000
02The Challenging Mount Panorama Circuit
03Notable Drivers and Teams
04Memorable Moments and Records
05The Impact of Safety Cars
06Wildcard Entries and Rookies
07Team Performance and Milestones
08The Legacy of Bathurst 1000

The Origins and Evolution of Bathurst 1000

The Bathurst 1000 is a legendary event in Australian motorsport. Its rich history and evolution have captivated fans for decades. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this iconic race.

  1. The Bathurst 1000 began as the Armstrong 500 in 1963, originally held at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit before moving to Mount Panorama in 1963.

  2. The race distance is 1,000 kilometers, which translates to 161 laps around the Mount Panorama Circuit.

  3. The first winners were Frank Coad and John Roxburgh, who drove a Vauxhall Cresta to victory.

  4. Peter Brock, known as the "King of the Mountain," holds the record for the most wins with nine victories.

  5. Ford and Holden have been the dominant manufacturers, with a fierce rivalry that has defined the event.

  6. Initially, the race featured class winners rather than an outright winner, showcasing a variety of cars.

The Challenging Mount Panorama Circuit

Mount Panorama is not just any race track. Its unique layout and demanding corners make it one of the most challenging circuits in the world.

  1. The track is 6.213 kilometers long and features 23 corners, including the infamous Conrod Straight and the Esses.

  2. The smallest margin between the first and second qualifiers was 0.0012 seconds, achieved by Steven Richards in 2004.

  3. The closest race-winning margin was 0.1434 seconds, achieved by Will Davison and Jonathon Webb in 2016.

  4. The longest recorded number of safety car periods in a single race was 13, occurring in the 2000 race.

  5. The greatest number of laps affected by the safety car was 45 out of 161 laps in the 2006 race.

Notable Drivers and Teams

The Bathurst 1000 has seen many legendary drivers and teams who have left an indelible mark on the event.

  1. Allan Moffat, Dick Johnson, and Mark Winterbottom are among the notable drivers who have made significant contributions to the race's history.

  2. Brad Jones Racing celebrated their 300th championship round start at the 2021 Repco Bathurst 1000.

  3. Mark Winterbottom became the seventh driver in ATCC/Supercars Championship history to make 250 round starts at Mount Panorama.

  4. Shane van Gisbergen entered the final round of the 2021 Repco Supercars Championship with an unassailable 349-point lead.

  5. Despite significant changes, only two crews from the 2020 race remained together for 2021: Shane van Gisbergen and Garth Tander, Jamie Whincup and Craig Lowndes.

Memorable Moments and Records

The Bathurst 1000 is filled with memorable moments and record-breaking performances that have thrilled fans over the years.

  1. The 2021 race saw 19 official lead changes between six cars, adding to the event's unpredictability.

  2. Chaz Mostert and Lee Holdsworth dominated the 2021 race, converting pole position into a dominant win.

  3. Brodie Kostecki and David Russell achieved their maiden Bathurst 1000 podium for Erebus Motorsport in 2021.

  4. The most lead changes in the modern era occurred in 2001 with 26 changes.

  5. Craig Lowndes and Steve Richards set the race record in 2018 with a time of 6 hours, 1 minute, and 44.5456 seconds.

  6. The oldest driver in the 2021 race was Russell Ingall, competing at the age of 57.

  7. Broc Feeney, at just 19 years old, joined Russell Ingall in a wildcard entry.

The Impact of Safety Cars

Safety cars play a crucial role in the Bathurst 1000, often altering the race's dynamics and outcomes.

  1. The race has only been run without safety car intervention twice: in 1989 and 1991.

  2. Safety car periods can significantly extend race time, as seen in 2014 when a mid-race red flag extended the race to 7 hours and 58 minutes.

  3. The 2021 race was extended due to safety car appearances, resulting in a finish time of 6 hours and 15 minutes.

  4. The number of lead changes can vary significantly, with 2020 seeing seven lead changes among four cars, while 2021 had 19 lead changes between six cars.

Wildcard Entries and Rookies

Wildcard entries and rookie drivers add an exciting element to the Bathurst 1000, bringing fresh talent and unexpected outcomes.

  1. Wildcard entries allow teams to field non-regular drivers, adding an interesting dynamic to the event.

  2. The best finishing position for a wildcard entry came in 2013 when Matthias Ekstrom and Andy Priaulx finished tenth.

  3. The 2021 race featured the smallest number of rookie drivers since its inception in 1963.

  4. Russell Ingall and Broc Feeney, representing the oldest and youngest drivers, teamed up in a wildcard entry in 2021.

Team Performance and Milestones

Teams play a vital role in the success of drivers at the Bathurst 1000. Their strategies and performances can make or break a race.

  1. The CoolDrive Mustang has consistently punched above its weight as a single-car operation, registering 25 top-ten finishes.

  2. Andre Heimgartner led the CoolDrive Mustang team into the event, fresh from two podiums in New Zealand.

  3. Brad Jones Racing achieved six podium finishes, including a best result of second place in 1997, 2001, and 2009.

  4. Mark Winterbottom, who won the 2013 Bathurst 1000 with Steven Richards, made his championship debut at the 2003 Sandown 500.

  5. Shane van Gisbergen’s unassailable lead in the 2021 championship marked the third consecutive year where the title was clinched with a round to spare.

  6. The CoolDrive Mustang team was placed tenth in the driver standings, showcasing their resilience and performance.

  7. The deployment of the safety car can significantly impact the race's outcome, as seen in 2014 when a mid-race red flag extended the race time.

  8. The longest recorded number of safety car periods in a Bathurst 1000 was 13, occurring in the 2000 race.

  9. The Bathurst 1000 serves as a grand finale for the Supercars Championship, attracting top drivers and teams worldwide to compete on the challenging Mount Panorama circuit.

The Legacy of Bathurst 1000

Bathurst 1000 isn't just a race; it's a celebration of speed, skill, and endurance. From its humble beginnings as the Armstrong 500 in 1963, this event has grown into a cornerstone of Australian motorsport. The Mount Panorama Circuit, with its 23 challenging corners, tests even the most seasoned drivers. Legends like Peter Brock and Craig Lowndes have etched their names in history with record-breaking performances. The fierce rivalry between Ford and Holden adds another layer of excitement, drawing fans from all over. Safety car deployments, lead changes, and wildcard entries keep the race unpredictable and thrilling. Whether it's the youngest rookie or the oldest veteran, every participant contributes to the rich tapestry of Bathurst 1000. This iconic event continues to captivate audiences, making it a must-watch spectacle year after year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is the Bathurst 1000?
Picture roaring engines and heart-pounding races; that's the Bathurst 1000 for you. Held annually in Bathurst, New South Wales, Australia, this car race is a spectacle of speed and skill, where drivers battle it out on Mount Panorama Circuit. It's not just any race; it's a test of endurance, strategy, and sheer will to win.
How long has the Bathurst 1000 been around?
Racing enthusiasts have been marking their calendars for this event since 1960. Over the decades, it has grown in prestige and popularity, becoming a cornerstone of Australian motorsport culture. Each year, the event writes a new chapter in its storied history, thrilling fans and participants alike.
Can anyone enter the race, or is it just for professional drivers?
While it might seem like a dream to zip around Mount Panorama, participation in the Bathurst 1000 is primarily reserved for professional drivers. These folks have not only honed their skills but also met stringent qualifications to compete at such a high level. So, for most of us, cheering from the sidelines or in front of our screens is how we get in on the action.
What makes the Mount Panorama Circuit so special?
Mount Panorama isn't your average racetrack. With its steep inclines, sharp turns, and thrilling straights, it's a beast of a course that challenges even the most seasoned drivers. Its unique layout demands respect, making each lap an adrenaline-fueled adventure. This track doesn't just test speed; it tests courage, precision, and endurance.
Has any driver won the Bathurst 1000 multiple times?
Absolutely! Several drivers have etched their names into Bathurst folklore by conquering the mountain more than once. Legends like Peter Brock, who won the race nine times, have become synonymous with the event, showcasing incredible skill and determination to claim victory on multiple occasions.
What's the record for the fastest lap at Bathurst 1000?
Speed demons, take note: the record for the fastest lap at the Bathurst 1000 is a testament to the sheer velocity and skill on display. As of my last update, Scott McLaughlin holds this honor, having set a blistering time in 2019. His lap around Mount Panorama was nothing short of awe-inspiring, pushing the limits of what's possible on this challenging track.
Can fans attend the Bathurst 1000, or is it a closed event?
Fans, rejoice! Spectators are more than welcome to witness the high-octane excitement of the Bathurst 1000 in person. With various vantage points around Mount Panorama Circuit, attendees can experience the roar of the engines, the speed of the cars, and the electric atmosphere that makes this event so special. Just be sure to plan ahead, as tickets and accommodations can go quickly!

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