Holden A9X Torana 1978 Bathurst

For the second time in two years, Bob Morris headed to Bathurst with real expectations of a win, teaming up with John Fitzpatrick in a Holden LX Torana SS A9X Hatchback. Although the Holden A9X Torana was significantly down in power from the larger Ford Falcon, it was much lighter and agile around the race track.
Morris was the fastest qualifier going into Hardies Heroes with a time of 2:21.7, and although he equalled this time in the shootout, he fell back to 4th on the grid.
On race day, starting from 4th position, Bob Morris raced into the lead within one lap and both he and Fitzpatrick continued to run strongly for 73 laps of the required 163, until the Torana dropped a fan belt and overheated. This unfortunately ended the Morris/Fitzpatrick race prematurely, leaving them with thoughts of what might have been had a little luck been on their side for the Great Race.

Item includes certificate and production number plate, mounted to the chassis.