Huge crowds flock to Bathurst for iconic Supercars event

Supercars fans were enjoying one of the biggest days in the motor racing calendar as they packed out Bathurst in glorious conditions.

Thousands of petrolheads have flocked to Bathurst on the 60th anniversary of the Great Race.

Huge crowds lined the course in the Central Tablelands of NSW to watch the biggest event in the Supercars calendar.

Last year’s edition of the famous event drew a bumper crowd of 195,578 despite race fans enduring “some of the worst weather conditions we have ever experienced at the Great Race,” according to Supercars CEO Shane Howard.

There were no such issues on race day this year with the iconic course drenched in nothing but glorious October sunshine.

Official attendance numbers have not been confirmed for 2023 but they could push close to the all-time record of 207,205 set back in 2012.

"Pitgirls" at the Bathurst 1000 Supercar race. Picture: NCA NewsWire/ Henry Derooy

Huge crowds gathered on a glorious spring day. Picture: NCA NewsWire/ Henry Derooy

The crowd was noted for its variety as much of its size, with everything from diehard petrolheads and “pitgirls” to families enjoying a big day out.

Race attendees were treated to a flyover from jet planes and other military displays, along with merchandise stalls,.

The 2023 edition of the race marks the first time a Holden car hasn’t featured at Bathurst after parent company General Motors discontinued the iconic Aussie brand.

Pre-race proceedings included a military display featuring a fighter jet flyover. Picture: NCA NewsWire/ Henry Derooy

Spectators look to the sky to get a glimpse of the spectacular display. Picture: NCA NewsWire/ Henry Derooy

Fun for all the family: Rhodri, William and Rob Barber at the Bathurst 1000 Supercar race. Picture: NCA NewsWire/ Henry Derooy

Racegoers weren’t the only ones captivated by events at the Mount Panorama Circuit.

Former champion Scott McLaughlin wouldn’t let a wedding in the USA stop him from tuning in.

In a move that may upset the bride and groom, the Kiwi driver was watching intently on his phone from the dining table.

Locked in at the wedding..! #bathurst1000pic.twitter.com/SjEjTwQxmf

— Scott McLaughlin (@smclaughlin93) October 8, 2023

Racegoers were spoiled for choice with tons of merchandise stalls and entertainment to go along with the main event. Picture: NCA NewsWire/ Henry Derooy

Race favourite Brodie Kostecki started in pole position after blitzing the field in Saturday’s top-10 shootout by a historically big margin.

The 25-year-old from Perth is looking to win his first Bathurst 1000 after finishing 4th at last year’s event.

Festivities started on Wednesday when drivers roared into town in a convoy, with the streets packed with adoring fans.

The race features 161 laps of the iconic 6.213km circuit, to make up the famous total distance of 1000km.