In October 1946, the New South Wales 100-mile Grand Prix motor race was run at Bathurst, attracting a field of 32 cars, including five from Victoria and two from Queensland. On the day, around 30,000 people turned out for the race which was won by AS Najar of Sydney, with JP Hind in second place and AV Johnson third. This was a spectacular win for the first-time entrant, who drove a modified standard touring model MG, with a specially built monoposto (single-seater) body, shaped to fit the driver.
The over-1500cc handicap was won by F Kleinig, driving a Hudson Special. WB Murray, also driving a Hudson Special, crossed the line in second place. The track took its toll on the cars, with five of the 15 starters retiring with engine trouble.
Apparently the race also marked the first time a female driver, Joan Richmond, competed in the event. She was behind the wheel of a Q-Type MG fitted with a super-charged engine. Unfortunately, there are no recorded photographs in this collection from State Library of New South Wales.
John Crouch in a Delahaye 135 followed by Alby Johnson in a an MG TC, Grand Prix, Bathurst, October 1946
Alf Najar in an MG TB racing car, Grand Prix, Bathurst, October 1946
Alf Najar, Grand Prix winner at Bathurst, October 1946
Belf Jones in a Buick Special in front of Bill MacLachlan in a modified MG TA, Grand Prix, Bathurst, October 1946
Bill Conoulty and his Austin 7 Comet, Grand Prix, Bathurst, October 1946
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