The Chase

	Go to
1987 saw the first layout change to the Mount Panorama race track since it was first used for racing in 1938. The change was the construction of The Caltex Chase at the end of Conrod Straight. The new feature was the result of tragedy the year before when Mike Burgman died after hitting the bridge on the straight while travelling at a breath-taking speed. Although officials and drivers still desired to see vehicles reach top speeds and test drivers' skills, it was agreed the potential for another fatal crash on The Straight, especially at the end coming into Murray's Corner, remained a problem that needed to be rectified. The construction of Caltex Chase also provided the opportunity for greater spectator viewing, especially of those high speeds. This dog-leg bend is a complex set of slower corners following a narrow right-hand sweep. Coming off The Straight and just after the entrance drivers have to brake very hard, only taking the entrance sweep fast on fresh tyres, before dropping back to third gear for the subsequent left-hander before hitting the gas in preparation for the short straight below Dunlop Bridge before Murray's Corner.
Other Views