THE 2023 edition of the Bathurst 12 Hour has drawn a record three-day crowd of 53,446, event organisers have announced.
That number eclipses the previous benchmark of 49,495 set in 2019, when the event ran over four days.
This year marked a return of the 12 Hour as a true international GT race following a COVID-19 induced hiatus in 2021 and a Pro-Am format in 2022.
The appearance of MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi as part of BMW’s line-up and a Red Bull Formula 1 demonstration both added to the event’s appeal.
Event director Shane Rudzis hailed the record crowd, which included a sold out allocation of 2500 camp sites.
“From the track to the skies, we made some key additions to the entertainment package in 2023, which we want to build on next year and in the future,” said Rudzis.
“Fans saw a reinvigorated Harris Park precinct and we would like to thank the manufacturers for engaging with fans in ways like never before.
“Not only was the event a thrilling experience for fans, but it also raised significant funds for Ronald McDonald House, the event’s official Charity partner.
“The main attraction was of course the racing of 26 of the world’s best endurance GT entries representing seven of the world’s biggest manufacturers.
“To be here and see that lap record get shattered during qualifying on Saturday was a special moment.
“The racing on Sunday was world-class and the pictures of sunrise as a backdrop to the Mount Panorama circuit are part of the unique moments that make this circuit one of the most iconic in the world.”
