Following on from the enormous success of the television ratings of the V8 Supercars at Bathurst in 2000, Network Ten and TVNZ in New Zealand achieved outstanding increases yet again for one of the biggest sporting events in Australia.

Overall the ratings were up across the board nearly 20% in Australia, and up nearly 50% in New Zealand. TVNZ said these ratings are some of the highest sport ratings ever recorded in New Zealand. A massive audience share was achieved all day Sunday throughout Australia and New Zealand.

Network Ten General Manager, Sport, David White said ‘these figures are fantastic and confirm that Bathurst is one of the greatest sporting events in the country. The television ratings and attendances are a reflection of its popularity and we look forward to the continuation of the rise in popularity of the V8 Supercar category’.

By very early morning, in every Australian market, television ratings were into double figures and climbed continuously all day taking out massive audience shares across all demographics.

The peak rating in each state was Sydney – 27, Melbourne – 25, Brisbane – 27, Adelaide – 20, Perth – 22.

Throughout the day, for an unbelievable 10 hours, the total commercial audience share of all available televisions never fell below 62%. This figure was even higher in sub demographics. This is particularly borne out with a significant increase in demographics amongst women of all age groups.

AVESCO Chairman, Tony Cochrane said ‘outstanding live attendance, coupled with these amazing television ratings in our two principal countries enhanced yet again the exceptional growth and popularity of V8 Supercars. Any sport would be over the moon to have such an enormous result’.

Full ratings details are available from Network Ten and TVNZ.

For further information please contact:

Martine Westbrook
Media Manager
Australian Vee Eight Supercar Company (AVESCO)
Tel: +61 7 5526 3564
Fax: +61 7 5526 3461
E-mail: mw@sel.com.au