A chaotic race at the 12 Hours of Bathurst, a driver collides with a kangaroo at 250 km/h and a severe impact between two cars
The 12 Hours of Bathurst race was marred by chaos, including a notable collision where driver Christopher Mies hit a kangaroo at high speed, leading to significant incidents early in the race.
The 12 Hours of Bathurst, part of the Intercontinental GT Challenge, experienced a chaotic start as double champion Christopher Mies was forced to retire following a dramatic collision with a kangaroo while traveling at approximately 250 km/h. The incident occurred merely 20 minutes into the race on the notorious Conrod Straight in New South Wales, Australia, where Mies and his teammate Broc Feeney, a renowned Supercars star, were the first to be eliminated from contention. This early setback set the stage for a tumultuous event further marred by multiple incidents.
Ralf Aron, sibling of racing driver Paul Aron, who drives for Alpine and partners with Colapinto, was also involved in the chaos that unfolded on the track. The series of collisions, including unexpected encounters with wildlife and tight racing circumstances, highlighted the unpredictable nature of endurance racing. The Bathurst circuit, known for its challenging conditions and dramatic scenery, is a staple in the motorsport calendar but can lead to unforeseen complications.
The aftermath of this particular race could have significant implications for the competitors, as it not only affected the standings of the drivers involved but also raised discussions on the safety measures in place for drivers in volatile racing environments. The resilience of the teams and the adaptability in their strategies during such races will now be scrutinized as they prepare for future events.