Challenge Bathurst 2024 Wrap Up
Conquering Mount Panorama: Our Unforgettable Experience at Challenge Bathurst
Mount Panorama is a race track that commands respect with its challenging layout and rich history. For racing enthusiasts like us, it's the ultimate testing ground—a place to push our skills to the limit. This year, our team had the opportunity to tackle this iconic circuit during Challenge Bathurst, and it was an experience that truly highlighted the unique demands and thrills of driving at such a renowned venue.
The Allure of Challenge Bathurst
Challenge Bathurst isn't just another event on the motorsport calendar; it's a festival of speed that brings together drivers from all walks of life. From seasoned professionals to enthusiastic rookies, everyone shares the same goal: to test themselves against one of the world's most demanding circuits. For those wondering how to become a race car driver or how to start racing, there's no better goal than the tarmac of Mount Panorama.
"It was our most successful Challenge Bathurst yet, with all the drivers exceeding our expectations.”
- Phil Alexander
Preparing for the Mountain
Our lineup featured a mix of talent, including two rookie drivers making their debut: Ronin Lindenmayer and Raphael "Raph" Wood. Both were eager to make their mark and gain invaluable experience. Under the guidance of our head coach, Phil Alexander, we have been working closely with both drivers over the last few months on their Driver Development plans to to provide them with the tools and support they needed to conquer the mountain.
Phil, a seasoned veteran with countless laps under his belt, emphasised the importance of anticipation. "We really focus on helping our drivers think ahead to the next corner because it's such a fast track," he explained. "By the time you're there, you need to be thinking about the next one."
One of our key strategies was utilising a lead car. This allowed our drivers to follow professional racing lines in real-time, drastically cutting down the learning curve. It's one thing to study a track map; it's another to see the ideal line unfold before your eyes at high speed.
Practice Makes Perfect - Driver Times
The format for Challenge Bathurst was Supersprint Thursday & Friday and Regularity Saturday & Sunday with 6 sessions spread over the two days of the event.
Practice Session Times:
Ronin Lindenmayer (Mazda 3 MZR SP25): 2:55.5140
Phil Alexander (Mazda RX8): 2:55.7400
Raphael Wood (BMW M3 E46): 3:04.3430
Sprint 1:
Ronin: 2:56.6110
Phil: 2:54.9280
Raph: 2:57.6630
Sprint 2:
Phil: 2:56.0340
Ronin: 2:57.3460
Raph: 2:50.0280
Sprint 3:
Ronin: 2:52.7240
Phil: 2:50.1850
Raph: 2:50.020
This was the highlight of the event. Ronin smashed his previous best by nearly five seconds. "I improved on corner speed, especially over the top," he said. "It's easy to go fast in a straight line, but daunting to do it over the top with all the tricks coming at you."
Phil continued to set an excellent example, while Raph's relentless focus on technical perfection saw him post a 2:47.4220. "I haven't stopped smiling from ear to ear," he beamed after the session.
Sprint 4:
Phil: 2:51.8760
Ronin: 2:52.5770
Raph: 2:58.5490
As the track heated up, conditions became more challenging. Raph noted that the top end was hot and slippery, leading to a drop in times. Nevertheless, the experience gained was invaluable.
Ronin Lindenmayer at Challenge Bathurst 2024, RaceAway Track Time Mazda SP25 Bathurst 6 Hour Car
Reflections from the Mountain
Phil had high praise for both rookies. "Ronin was very focused on putting each lap together, really pushing himself to have a good lap time without creating any issues, whether mechanical or in traffic. He did really well improving as his track familiarity increased, with a view to competing in the Bathurst 6 Hour next year."
On Raph's performance, Phil commented, "Raph, being the technical thinker he is, was very analytical about each of the corners. This way of attacking the track meant that he was very accurate, and this played directly into his speed improvement under the conditions."
The Success of Team Effort
We also had three dry hires with more experienced racers who took full advantage of our race car hire at Bathurst services. Their feedback was overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the quality of our vehicles and the support provided by our team. Head coach Phil noted "It was our most successful Challenge Bathurst yet, with all the drivers exceeding our expectations. The cars performed beautifully with no issues whatsoever and came home with no marks. Having done this for a number of years now, our experienced team was all over it and was able to give the drivers excellent support. At the end of the day, we want to bring fresh faces to Mount Panorama and make the bucket list real for drivers, and we did just that. Bring on the Bathurst 6 Hour 2025!"
RaceAway RX8 Race Car at Challenge Bathurst with Phil Alexander behind the wheel
Why Mount Panorama is the Ultimate Racing Experience
For anyone dreaming of racing at Mount Panorama or ticking off that ultimate bucket list item, events like Challenge Bathurst provide the perfect gateway. As a Supersprint or Regularity event, you're essentially racing against the clock—and yourself—without the intense door-to-door, bumper-to-bumper competition. This format makes participation more accessible, requiring only a Motorsport Australia Speed License. It opens the doors to experience Australia's most iconic track, allowing you to embrace the thrill of Mount Panorama without the high barriers typically associated with competitive racing.
Our experience this year reinforced why we do what we do. Providing access to top-quality cars, expert coaching, and a supportive team environment allows drivers to push their limits safely. Whether you're a seasoned pro or figuring out how to start racing, the mountain has something to teach you.
Looking Ahead
With the success of this year's event, our sights are set on the future. Ronin is gearing up for the Bathurst 6 Hour next year, and we're excited to see how he applies the lessons learned. Raph continues to fine-tune his technical approach, and we have no doubt he'll be a force to reckon with in upcoming events.
For those interested in joining us, we offer comprehensive packages that include everything you need to hit the track. From race car hire at Bathurst to personalised driver development plans, we're here to make your racing dreams a reality.
Raphael Wood at Bathurst Challenge ‘24 racing the RaceAway BMW M3
Final Thoughts
Challenge Bathurst 2024 was more than just an event; it was a testament to what can be achieved with determination, the right support, and a shared passion for motorsport.
To anyone out there dreaming of taking on Mount Panorama, we say go for it. The mountain is waiting, and so are we.
Are you up for the challenge? Check out our 👉Driver Development Programs👈 and race Mount Panorama in 2025
