Setting the fastest lap of the entire race for a GT4 car was the highlight of Canberra racer Cameron Hill’s debut performance in the coveted Liqui-Moly Bathurst 12 Hour endurance race at Mount Panorama today.
Following his strong second place in qualifying, the BMW Team SRM crew entrusted him with starting duties in the BP Ultimate BMW M4, and he immediately took the lead, working hard to establish a lead over his rivals.
As the initial fuel load burned down, Hill took advantage of clear track to record a 2:16.5 lap time on his 16th tour of the hallowed Mount Panorama circuit, a time that would not be bettered for the remainder of the 12 hour epic.
While the team’s chances of a top-three class result were ultimately disrupted by an incident when one of his co-drivers was in the car, he remained upbeat about the weekend.
“Overall, it’s just been an awesome event – it was a dream to even be on the grid and to be starting a major endurance race at Mount Panorama was a surreal experience,” Hill said.
“In the first stint, the car felt strong and I was able to record the fastest lap, demonstrating the BMW M4’s speed.
“While it was disappointing to lose so many laps repairing the car after the incident, the team did a sensational job to get it back out onto the track and when I returned to the driver’s seat, I was able to set consistent times.
“A massive thank you to Steven Richards, BP Ultimate and the entire team for the opportunity to drive in this awesome race.”
Hill’s focus now turns to his Porsche Carrera Cup Australia program, commencing with pre-season testing ahead of the season-opener at the Adelaide 500 in four weeks.
