News

August 8, 2016 | General

RACE TO THE GRID SEES RECORD EARLY ENTRIES FOR BATHURST 6 HOUR

THE Hi-Tec Oils Bathurst 6 Hour grid is already half full just one week after entries officially opened. Event organisers have received 36 entries in the eight days since entries opened on 1 August – half of the maximum Mount Panorama grid capacity of 72 cars.Entry forms have been received from five states, 26 different entrants / teams and also include representation in each of the key classes that make up the event.The makeup of the entries features an even balance between returning teams who competed this year and new competitors entering the race for the first time.Entries remain open until 10 March 2017, with early-bird entry packages open until 30 September this year.However, potential competitors are now being advised to submit their entry soon or risk missing out on the hallmark event on the Australian Production Car calendar.”We knew there would be high demand and that we would likely see more than the 50 entries received in 2016, however the early reaction has been larger than expected,” Event Director James O’Brien said.”We are working towards the real possibility of a full grid in a major Bathurst endurance race for the first time in decades and there is a great deal of excitement around that.”Whilst entries remain open until March, we would encourage those teams intending to enter, to do so soon as the grid could be full before the closing date.”Event organisers have also confirmed an expanded media package will ensure more people will be able to view the action next Easter.A two-hour highlights package – double the length of the 2016 show – will air on SBS Speedweek in the weeks following the 14-16 April event, while live streaming coverage of the Sunday Race will be broadcast live via the www.bathurst6hour.com.au website and MotorsportsTV Application for Android and iPhone platforms.The stream of the inaugural race was viewed more than 50,000 times, with additional video highlights on the Bathurst 6 Hour Facebook page and Twitter profile adding further to the Event’s reach.The service will again be provided free or charge to fans.