Michael Gooderham
Updated on: October 11, 2024 5:32 pm GMT
Motorsport fans have one last chance to win an extraordinary experience at the upcoming Repco Bathurst 1000, with ticket sales for the Ultimate Bathurst Prize raffle closing soon. The initiative, supported by industry leaders like PIRTEK, aims to provide a remarkable weekend at Australia’s most iconic race, while simultaneously contributing to a significant cause—the Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit at St Vincent’s Hospital.
Ultimate Bathurst Prize Raffle Details
The fourth annual Ultimate Bathurst Prize raffle is not just an ordinary contest; it offers an exclusive experience that few motorsport enthusiasts can ever dream of. Recent discussions with prominent figures in the Supercars community highlight the raffle’s unique nature. Tickets are priced at AUD$20 and can be purchased until 4:30 PM AEST on Monday, September 16, through www.ultimatemotorsportprize.com. All funds raised will go toward vital research in neuroscience, a fact that has further motivated fans to participate.
Neil Crompton, a longstanding supporter of the Ultimate Motorsport Prize and a notable figure in Australian motorsports, emphasized the exceptional nature of the offering. “I doubt there is a better fan prize in world motorsports,” Crompton said. “The chance to experience everything this raffle offers is remarkable, and every previous winner has cherished their time at Bathurst.”
What the Winner Can Expect
The grand prize includes an impressive array of VIP experiences. Along with return flights for two from the winner’s closest Australian capital city, the first-place package features:
- Four nights of accommodation
- Three-day corporate passes in the Supercar Paddock Club
- A meet-and-greet with motorsport legend Dick Johnson
- A personal tour of the Shell V-Power Racing Team pit garage
- Access to the race grid before the start
- A photo opportunity in Pirtek Victory Lane post-race
- A VIP “after hours” private tour of the National Motor Racing Museum
- A chance to sit in either a Peter Brock or Allan Moffat Bathurst-winning car
- A visit to race control and a photo on the podium with the Peter Brock Trophy
- A Pirtek Merchandise pack
- A personally escorted tour of various scenic spots around Bathurst, including McPhillamy Park and Skyline
- A helicopter ride for a birds-eye view of the race
Crompton noted that this prize package is designed not just to provide entertainment but also to offer a comprehensive behind-the-scenes look at what goes on during race day.
Additional Raffle Prizes
In addition to the first prize, there are also second and third prizes to encourage participation. The details are as follows:
- Second Prize: Two corporate Paddock Club tickets, two Course Car rides, and two grid walks at any 2025 Supercars event.
- Third Prize: Two general admission tickets to a 2025 Supercars event of choice.
Mark Devitt, CEO of PIRTEK, highlighted that the success of the raffle has been significantly driven by the enthusiasm of previous winners, who continue to advocate for the event. “We encourage fans to get their last-minute tickets to ensure they have a shot at being the ‘king’ or ‘queen’ of The Mountain next month,” Devitt stated.
Ford’s Enduro Drought and Upcoming Events
As the Ultimate Bathurst Prize raffle garners attention, another key event in the motorsport calendar approaches—the Penrite Oil Sandown 500. This race carries particular significance for the Ford team, which has not secured a win in an endurance event since the 2019 Bathurst 1000. Currently, Ford is looking to break a five-year winless streak in endurance competitions, and the upcoming Sandown event marks a critical juncture in their season.
Since winning the Bathurst 1000 in 2019, Ford has faced stiff competition, primarily from the Holden and Chevrolet teams, which have dominated the enduro events. Notably, Triple Eight has claimed seven of the last eight enduro races, reinforcing its status as a leading competitor. As of the upcoming race day on Sunday, a staggering 1,799 days will have elapsed since Ford last graced the top step of the podium at an endurance event.
Key Drivers and Teams
Despite their historical challenges, several Ford combinations are expected to perform well this season. Chaz Mostert, a championship contender, will reunite with veteran driver Lee Holdsworth in the #25 Optus Mustang. Mostert, who has consistently finished in the top positions in recent races, views this partnership as a critical component of his strategy to contend for the championship title.
Holdsworth, now a commercial real estate agent, brings experience and expertise that could further Mostert’s efforts to secure a maiden Repco Supercars Championship victory. “Chaz is in a position where he can definitely fight for this championship,” Holdsworth said, emphasizing their shared goal of success this season.
Conclusion
The deadline for the Ultimate Bathurst Prize raffle is coming up soon, and motorsport fans have a great chance to win a special experience while helping a good cause. Ford is hoping to break a long losing streak in endurance racing at the Sandown event. As these events get closer, the excitement is building in the motorsport community, showing just how much people love and enjoy Australian motorsports.
