When you think of Supercars, two carmakers probably spring to mind. Ford and Holden have shared a rivalry in the sport for over half a century but sadly, this year’s Bathurst 1000 will be the last time we see the Lion compete.
Coinciding with the Australian brand’s farewell at the Great Race are a series of milestones which will be celebrated throughout the weekend.
One of those milestones is that it will mark the 50th anniversary since Holden driver Peter Brock scored his first of nine Bathurst wins.
“When you think of Bathurst, it’s difficult not to think of Peter – the King of the Mountain,” said Chris Payne, General Manager of Chevrolet Racing.
“He was an incredible driver who achieved an unrivalled nine wins here for Holden, an achievement I don’t ever think will be bettered.”
In celebration of Brock, fans can expect to see a lineup of his cars in Harris Park precinct at the circuit.
Not only is the driver being celebrated at the track but Australia Post will also be releasing a limited stamp set dubbed ‘Peter Brock – Kind of the Mountain.’ Five of Brock’s famous victories at Mount Panorama will feature on their designs which will only be available at Australia Post Offices.
Over the course of Holden’s time competing at the mountain, it racked up 35 wins in total. The likes of current Holden Supercar drivers Shane van Gisbergen, Andrew Heimgartner and Chaz Mostert among many others will be looking to add just one more win to that number this weekend.
Greg Murphy is another Holden driver most Kiwis will be familiar with who will also be competing this weekend in a Holden ZB Commodore alongside Richie Stanaway.
Murphy is no stranger to the Bathurst 1000, picking up four race wins throughout his career.
The Kiwi also completed arguably one of the most iconic laps around the circuit back on 2003 which is known as the Lap of the Gods.
Another notable driver of the brand is Craig Lowndes who will take to the track for his 300th combined Touring Car/Supercars round start. No other driver has yet to match this record in the history of the sport.
“I’ve enjoyed an incredibly memorable career and am humbled to be here for my 300th round start,” said seven times Bathurst winner, Craig Lowndes.
“I have a strong affinity with the Mountain and would like nothing more than to add to the wins I have savoured here.
“It’s a long race, one in which anything can happen – and it usually does – but to be in the running come Sunday would be hugely satisfying.” Lowndes added.
So if this truly is goodbye, thanks Holden for the memories and one of motorsport’s greatest rivalries.
