Challenge Bathurst 2025 WRAP UP
That’s a wrap on Challenge Bathurst 2025 with drivers Eleanor Webber and Jake Hextall…
WEBBER & HEXTALL DRIVE WITH RACEAWAY
Challenge is by far one of our favourite events. It’s as competitive as you want it to be with a supersprint or regularity format and there’s a wide mix of cars from some serious eye candy straight through to regular racers in Pulsars and Excels. It presents as a training ground where the focus is on you & your lap times.
Eleanor Webber at Challenge Bathurst 2025 driving the RaceAway Mazda SP25
This year, the team were stoked to be bringing along two drivers: Jake Hextall in our Mazda RX8 and Eleanor Webber in the Mazda SP25. We also supported familiar face Raph Wood in his stunning Mustang.
The first two sessions — Familiarity and Practice — were red-flag specials with other cars exploring track limits and sampling the gravel traps. We finished on a high with a fab first sprint in the afternoon getting some proper laps down and smiles all round. With very little data from the mornings sessions we kept the car setup the same despite the heat and the drivers produced decent times.
Eleanor: 2:58.9040
Jake: 2:49.7330
Friday morning brought cool air and a fresh reset. The difference showed immediately:
Session 1:
Eleanor: 2:54.8740
Jake: 2:47.8030
Session 2:
A bit more traffic, a few friendly battles, and more consistency:
Eleanor: 2:54.5900
Jake: 2:48.6530
We wrapped up the day with Jake sliding in another consistent best at 2:48.3510.
Jake Hextall Challenge Bathurst 2025 in the RaceAway RX8
In regards to car setup - we ran the SP25 with the same setup we used for the Bathurst 6 Hour: endurance-focused, Hankook control tyres (28 psi front, 32 rear), and Circo pads. The focus with this front wheel drive was to have Eleanor explore the nuances of driving it through the corners.
The RX8 ran it’s usual RX8 Cup setup on Nankang AR1 semis, Circo pads and 26 psi hot all round.
Coach Phil noted -
“For first-timers, Bathurst is all about driving within your limits, building familiarity and learning the lines. Every corner is a surprise the first day — muscle memory just isn’t there yet.”
Particular emphasis went into working The Cutting and Forest Elbow — two corners that have caught out many drivers over the years because of rubber build-up, narrow margins and the consequences of being even slightly off-line. When we asked Jake about his thoughts on Bathurst he commented -
“I love this place … It’s intimidating, it’s huge, there’s no margin for error”
By the end of Day 2, both drivers were running at about 80% of the car’s capacity — exactly where we wanted them. Our goal with Challenge it’s to build the driver. Confidence, focus and fast reflexes come first. The lap time naturally follows. More importantly, this approach creates a solid foundation of racecraft that carries across to any track, any car and any racing format.
The whole team was genuinely proud of both Jake and Eleanor. We’ve watched their growth over the past year, and this weekend showed just how far they’ve come.
Eleanor summed it up beautifully:
“It was a phenomenal experience that both challenged me and taught me so much! Huge shoutout to the entire RaceAway Track Time crew for the coaching, advice and support. Definitely won’t be the last time!”
She later messaged:
“There are no words to express how amazing the week was. I’ve learned so much from both the successes and my mistakes — and I know there’s so much more to work on.”
A massive shoutout to all our team and crew: Jason Varley, Lachie Mineef, Nathan Gregory, Tony Moore, Manarth Prasad, Rod Tippett and of course our head coach Phil Alexander.
Check out Jake’s battle with a Honda Civic across the top of Mount Panorama ⤵️
Is Bathurst on your Bucket List?
Challenge Bathurst is the perfect event to drive Mount Panorama. It’s an accessible event with easy licensing requirements. If taking on Mount Panorama is on your bucket list, we can get you there — safely, professionally and with a fully prepared race car waiting for you at pit lane.
We offer Arrive ’n’ Drive packages for Bathurst events, including:
Race Car Hire: Mazda SP25, Mazda RX8, Toyota ‘86, BMW M3, Mazda MX5
Comprehensive crew support
Coaching with Phil Alexander
Admin, Catering, Logistics, Transport and full team backing
👉 Want to talk about racing at Bathurst?
Get in touch — we’d love to help you take on the Mountain.
Experience Australia’s Premier Race Tracks: Driver Development Program 2025
Learn how to get into motorsport, race at Bathurst, and conquer Australia’s top circuits.
If you’ve ever wondered how to start racing or how to get into motorsport, our Driver Development Program is your gateway to competing on iconic tracks, including opportunities to race at Bathurst. We provide everything from race car hire Bathurst to expert coaching, comprehensive support, and detailed guidance on venues like Phillip Island—so if you’ve ever asked, “Can I race at Phillip Island?” the answer is yes!
Challenge Bathurst - BMW M3
Sydney 300 - Mazda MX5
Australian Production Championships - Phillip Island
Why Race These Tracks?
Racing across different circuits not only sharpens your driving skills but also accelerates your growth as a competitor. Each track poses unique challenges that test various aspects of your abilities, from high-speed cornering at Phillip Island to strategic overtaking on the twisty layout of Winton Raceway. For circuit racing for beginners, tackling diverse tracks under professional guidance helps build confidence, adaptability, and a strong racing foundation.
Iconic Tracks Featured in Our Programs
Phillip Island Circuit: Perfect your high-speed cornering and line selection amidst sweeping coastal views. If you’ve been curious whether you can race here, now is your chance.
Sydney Motorsport Park: Multiple track configurations and modern facilities ensure you develop the versatility essential for competitive motorsport.
Winton Raceway: Dubbed the “Nation’s Action Track,” Winton’s technical layout will enhance your braking, cornering, and racecraft—key skills for aspiring drivers.
Mount Panorama (Bathurst): Racing at Bathurst is a bucket-list goal for many drivers, and we’ll guide you through the process. Our race car hire Bathurst options make it accessible, allowing you to experience the legendary track’s elevation changes and challenging corners firsthand.
Starting your racing journey can feel overwhelming, but our program simplifies every step. We handle the logistics—from race car hire and car prep to pit crew services and event entries—so you can focus on honing your technique and building your racing résumé.
Our team of experienced coaches provides personalised feedback, helping you pinpoint where to invest your time and resources. By following a structured approach, you’ll learn how to take on each circuit with confidence, gaining the answers you need to how to start racing and how to get into motorsport at a professional level.
Budgeting for Success
Entering the world of motorsport involves financial planning. To participate in these events, you should anticipate a budget of around $12,000 - $15,000 per round, which typically covers essentials like race car hire, transport, preparation, coaching, and logistical support. Check out our Arrive ‘n’ Drive racing experiences for inclusions. This upfront investment ensures a seamless experience as you develop the skills necessary to excel in high-stakes racing environments.
Example Racing Calendar
Here’s a sample of what a personalised racing calendar might look like:
February: Phillip Island – RX8 Cup
Drive - Mazda RX8 Race car. Refine high-speed stability and cornering at a world-class circuit.May: Sydney Motorsport Park – Sydney 300
Drive - Mazda MX5 Race car. Adapt to different track configurations and learn to thrive under pressure.August: Winton Raceway – Winton 300
Drive - Mazda MX5 Race car. Sharpen technical skills on a challenging layout, enhancing braking and corner exits.November: Challenge Bathurst
Drive - BMW M3 Race car. Realise your dream to race at Bathurst in a professionally prepared car, pushing your skills to the limit on one of the world’s most iconic tracks.
Ready to Hit the Track?
Our Driver Development Program is your answer to circuit racing for beginners and a direct route to the tracks you’ve always aspired to conquer. From race car hire solutions and top-notch coaching to strategic planning around iconic events, we provide everything you need to succeed.
Get in Touch
Contact us today to discuss your racing goals, budgeting options, and how our expert guidance can fast-track your motorsport ambitions.
Phone: 0472 535 354
By choosing our Driver Development Program, you’ll gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence to reach the highest levels of racing, forging your path through Australia’s legendary circuits and making your mark on the motorsport world.
START YOUR MOTORSPORT JOURNEY TODAY ⤵️
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Challenge Bathurst 2024 Wrap Up
Well, that's a wrap on Challenge Bathurst 2024! Our rookie drivers, Ronin Lindenmayer and Raphael Wood, successfully completed their driver development plans, culminating in a thrilling race at the iconic Mount Panorama. Not only did our team provide excellent support for our arrive 'n' drive packages, but we also oversaw the dry hire of another two race cars—totaling five on the hallowed tarmac of Mount Panorama.
Are you up for the challenge? Whether you're curious about how to become a race car driver or how to start racing, now is the perfect time to get involved. Get in touch about Challenge Bathurst 2025, and let's put you in the driver's seat. With opportunities to participate in events like the Bathurst 6 Hour and access to race car hire at Bathurst, we're here to help you race at Mount Panorama and make your racing dreams a reality.
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
Want to race Mount Panorama but don’t know where to start? Drop us a line! We’d love to get you behind the wheel ⤵️
Driver Development Program Experience
Manarth Prasad’s passion for racing led him from track days to competitive motorsport with the guidance of RaceAway Track Time’s Driver Development Program. Under coach Phil Alexander, Manarth honed his skills, gained his Motorsport Australia Circuit License, and achieved his dream of racing in the RX8 Cup.
From Aspiration to Achievement: Manarth Prasad’s Journey with RaceAway Track Time
For many aspiring racers, transitioning from casual track days to competitive motorsport can feel like a daunting leap. But for Manarth Prasad, that leap was made possible through dedication, the right mentorship, and the tailored support of RaceAway Track Time’s Driver Development Program. Guided by our experienced head coach, Phil Alexander, Manarth embarked on a journey that saw him progress through endurance racing, hone his skills in various training days, and ultimately achieve his goal of competing at Challenge Bathurst behind the wheel of an RX8.
Manarth Prasad at Challenge Bathurst 2023 racing the RaceAway RX8 Cup Car
In this blog, Manarth shares his experience — from obtaining his Motorsport Australia Circuit License to thriving in competitive racing — and how the RaceAway team helped unlock his potential, both on and off the track.
“I've loved cars since I can remember, and had been participating in track days since I'd gotten my license. I was ready to step things up and start competing in motorsport and would need a competition license as I had aspirations of competing in the RX8 cup.
I was referred Raceaway track time for my observed license test and was pleasantly surprised to discover that my license test was to be overseen by Phil Alexander, having been a long time fan of rotaries - I recognised the name, there was a model of one of his former race cars in the workshop I use!
Challenge Bathurst 2023, RaceAway RX8 Cup Car
It's safe to say that what was meant to be a simple one day exam has turned into a valued partnership with a wonderful group of people. Though I'd obtained my license, I was by no means a racing driver - by utilising Raceaway track times connections I was able to access a variety of entry level events that I would not have known had ever existed.
“I can’t speak enough to the value to be found in working with someone with the breadth of experience provided by Phil. With a keen eye and understanding of each individual driver that he works with, the strong focus on foundational learning has equipped me with the ability to feel confident in a formal race environment. ”
Driving skills aside, understanding how to navigate the formalities of organised racing events, the decorum expected by officials at a race track - all of which is made a thousand times easier with the guidance of someone with decades of experience. It means that you're able to focus on the important part, developing your skills and driving.
I was able to participate in lower level events, frequent practice sessions and within five months, I was offered an opportunity to compete in challenge Bathurst. Through everything I had learnt in working with Phil in that short period of time, I actually felt equipped with the knowledge and ability to enjoy and learn from the experience of driving on one of the best tracks in the entire world.
Taking everything I had learnt, just under a year on from obtaining my license and now having experienced a wide variety of cars and racetracks, I have now achieved my goal of competing regularly in the RX8 cup - with the knowledge and skills I now possess, I can comfortably look upon my growth and past self and say that none of the joy any of this has brought to my life would have been possible without the guidance, friendship and company of Phil and the team. I highly suggest that anybody with the interest, whether you're an enthusiast, working on your own growth or someone with genuine aspirations towards being a racing driver - reach out to the team, there's a world of experiences and possibilities out there. All that's missing is you.”
Want to start your motorsport career? Check out our Driver Development program and accelerate your motorsport journey today ⤵️
