By Johan Laubscher
The Bathurst 12 Hour took place this weekend. It was the third 12 Hour event held at Bathurst since FIA GT3 specification race cars have been allowed to enter.
Audi R8 LMS cars have been victorious on both previous occasions, each time with factory support. This year no less than seven Audis were entered by seven private teams. Five Audi R8 LMS ultra cars were joined by two older R8 LMS cars.
The weekend got off to a good start as Audis topped two out of the three free practice sessions on Friday. Qualifying saw a very fast pace and getting a clear lap on the crowded track was key. In the end the top placed Audi was the #9 Mark Eddy/Marc Ciny entry with Christopher Mies setting the time. Two Audis were in the top ten, followed by all seven placing in the top sixteen.
The race got underway with a hectically fast pace and a number of accidents. The Audi squad were holding their positions near the front until various setbacks dropped the cars down the field. As the race went into the late afternoon the highest placed Audi was the Phoenix Racing entry running in fifth. The race finished under wet conditions with the #1 Phoenix entry in fourth, ahead of the recovering #9 Mark Eddy/Marc Cini car in fifth. Four Audis finished within the top ten.
Photo credit: Audi Sport Communication / Media
