Four-time winner Jamie Whincup has claimed provisional pole for Sunday’s Bathurst 1000.

He didn’t break his own lap record, but still topped qualifying at Mount Panorama.

Whincup held out a fast-finishing Scott McLaughlin.

Jenny Archdall reports.

TRANSCRIPT:

It was perfect conditions out on the track today as the crowds started pouring in to Mt Panorama.

The drivers were pushing the limits in the first practice laps.

That’s despite some heavy incidents yesterday, which forced overnight damage repairs.

Jamie Whincup and his co driver Paul Dumbrell had a great start… coming in fastest through the opening sessions.

The famous track is still daunting for even the most experienced drivers.

Chaz Mostert Driver: “I think theres just always nerves around this place going out for the first session but um yeah it took a couple of laps just to get flat through the corner where I crashed last year but it all feels really good now.”

NAME: James Courtney, Driver: “To be honest it’s pretty scary initially there’s a lot going on in a short period of time in between two concrete walls carrying a lot of speed.”

And then this afternoon… More drama.

Race commentator: “We need to get that car shut down really fast… some dramas here for Matt Palmer.”

Tomorrow we’ll see the top ten shoot out before the big race on Sunday.

Jenny Archdall QUT news.