Australian Racing Group CEO Matt Braid excited to have 6 Hour back

This year's Bathurst 6 Hour began on Friday with practice and qualifying in different categories, with more practice, qualifying and races on Saturday before the main 6 Hour race on Sunday.

Mr Braid said he's expecting a competitive event this weekend.

"Everyone is so glad to be back. It's so good that we're getting back to racing in 2021 and have the 6 Hour after not running it this year," he said.

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"We've got a great field of 275 competitors across all the categories which is huge. Racing is back, the competitors are here and everyone is keen.

While there are some coronavirus restrictions, Mr Braid said everything is feeling much better than it was several months ago like at the Bathurst 1000 when there was a strict cap of fans.

"It's certainly better than what it was," he said.

"It's getting easier but there is the COVID cloud that is hanging over us, which means we have to be aware of the roles and responsibilities under the guidelines.

"Everyone is use to it and adapting to it. It's not getting in the way of the event, which is the most important thing."

The Bathurst 6 Hour has been running since 2016 and Mr Braid said he's seen the event grow dramatically in the past five years.

"I think everyone around the world that is into motor sport wants to come to Bathurst, whether you're a fan or a driver," he said.

"To have an event like this where you can put in as many categories as possible for people to participate and run in, it's great. It'll only grow."

Reigning champions Beric Lynton and Orange's Tim Leahey - who won the 2019 edition in their BMW M3 580 - are back to defend their title this year.

For the complete racing schedule for the 2021 Bathurst 6 Hour event, visit the website at bathurst6hour.com.au.

Tickets are still available for the event too, which can be purchased via the previously mentioned Bathurst 6 Hour website.

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