Some of Australia’s greatest ever racers united in Bathurst today to mark the launch of the Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000, celebrating 50 years of racing on Mount Panorama.
Returning to the track where their legacy is etched, four of motor racing’s most memorable legends joined their contemporaries to reflect on the iconic moments of the Bathurst endurance race. Colin Bond, Allan Moffat, Jim Richards and Dick Johnson were joined by modern-day colleagues Russell Ingall, Craig Lowndes and Jamie Whincup — all united by their experiences at the mountain.
The legends were celebrating this year’s event, which marks half a century of racing at Mount Panorama. But the missing legend — the King of the Mountain, Peter Brock — also played a significant part in the official launch. The drivers paid tribute to the fallen immortal by laying a wreath at the Peter Brock Memorial, followed by a moment of silence in his honour.
Gathered together with a few Coopers beers, the Bathurst legends reflected on their greatest moments at the mountain — recounting memories such as Ford’s one-two finish in 1977, the moment Johnson hit the rock and then the trees, Murphy’s legendary lap of the Gods, and Lowndes fighting back tears to win the first Peter Brock Trophy.
Five-time Bathurst winner Lowndes said this year’s event holds a special place for all the drivers involved.
“We are remembering moments that have made history — many that have shaped our sport — and sharing them so everyone can be a part of 50 years of racing at this great place,” Lowndes said.
During the day the Bathurst legends re-enacted some of their own iconic moments at Mount Panorama, allowing Australians to relive the magic from yesteryear.
V8 Supercars CEO David Malone said celebrating the history of Mount Panorama was an important part of paying homage to the sport’s heritage.
“Remembering and reliving the great moments at Bathurst allows us to pay tribute to some of the sport’s greatest,” said Mr Malone. “Mount Panorama is ranked among the most difficult tracks in the world — it has put Australia on the map in terms of racing, and this year we are remembering all the people who made racing on the mountain famous around the world.”
With four weeks to go until the Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000, the countdown is well and truly on for what is expected to be the biggest year of racing and celebration in the mountain’s history.
Don’t miss the countdown to the top 50 moments at Bathurst — visit www.v8supercars.com.au or head to ticketek.com.au for ticket information.
