LAP OF THE GODS

IT'S AUSTRALIA'S MOST ICONIC RACE TRACK AND IT DEMANDS RESPECT. LUFFY'S HERE TO GUIDE YOU ON A HOT LAP

- TRENT GIUNCO & WARREN LUFF

ABSOLUTELY ICONIC. THERE isn't a stretch of tarmac more important or historic, in terms of motorsport, in Australia. The 6.213km circuit that weaves its way up, across and down Mount Panorama is so revered that it's put the country NSW town of Bathurst on the must-visit list of motorsport fans the world over. It's easy to forget that for most of the year it's a public road servicing 40 local homes and businesses.

In all there are 23 turns, with 'The Chase' being added by 1987 for Australia's round of the inaugural World Touring Car Championship - which was to be Peter Brock's ninth and final Bathurst 1000 victory. The boom of 2.0-litre Super Touring in the '90s fought to steal the traditional battle away from the then-V8 Supercars, but it wasn't as popular with fans and lasted only two years.

The addition of The Chase also prevented motorbikes from gaining air over one of the crests down Conrod Straight, but also created the fastest corner of any track in the country. Sadly, the Mountain has claimed lives over the years, a reminder that respect is certainly required.

Warren Luff has had his fair share of luck and success at The Mountain (six podiums in the past 10 years), but is quick to detail the realities of coming to grips with the track for beginners. "Everywhere from turn two to Forrest's Elbow is a hot point because it's just one big roller coaster with zero room for error. Any small mistake, you've got walls on both sides." With that bank of experience and success, Luffy is the perfect Bathurst guide. Strap in. - TG

SECTION ONE: HELL TO PAY