The biggest race on V8 Calendar, the Bathurst 1000, gets underway this weekend.

29 drivers and cars will battle it out for the coveted racing crown.

And defending champ, Jamie Whincup, claimed poll position in today’s first qualifying round.

Tom Fowles reports.

TRANSCRIPT

Old rivals Holden and Ford once again faceoff on Mt Panorama.

But for the first time since the 90s the two foes will be joined by some new faces.

Volvo returns to the legendary race and Mercedes-Benz debuting this year.

Whincup may have taken honours today, but Ford’s Mark Winterbottom says it’s his year.

Mark Winterbottom, Pepsi Max Racing: “I’d do anything to win it, I’m desperate, and you’ve gotta drive that way.”

The opening practice sessions already have claimed the scalps of two major contenders.

Tim Slade crashed into a wall in the opening exchanges.

But it was this crash from championship newbie Chaz Mostert that really got the crowd’s attention.

Mostert took full blame for the crash.

Chaz Mostert, Dick Johnson Racing: “I just got a bit hungry out there, just trying to find the limits out there and getting ready for qualifying and unfortunately made a driver error.”

Almost 200,000 motor-racing fans are expected to converge on the NSW regional city throughout the weekend, bringing $25 million worth of business with them.

Tom Fowles, QUT News.