Armor All Bathurst 12 Hour organisers will attempt to attract more spectators to next year’s race by significantly lowering ticket prices, according to promoter James O’Brien.

The event announced its 2012 ticket structure today with Saturday and Sunday general admission passes available for $20. A three-day grandstand ticket can be purchased for just $50 in the Pit Straight Grandstand.

Paddock access will be free with the 12 Hour pledging to offer a more ‘open garage’ policy than other events, allowing fans unparalleled access to competitors and cars.

The 2011 race attracted an official attendance of 18,000 over the three days, with a target of 20,000 in place for 2012.

“We think the event is unique and want to encourage more people to experience a different kind of Bathurst weekend,” O’Brien told Speedcafe.com.

“The Event’s profile has grown and 2012 will see more international entrants than ever. We will, however, continue to offer great value to the public, particularly ensuring the Event is affordable for families. Mum and Dad can bring the kids to a day at the Mountain for less than $50, all the while having access to the whole circuit, the Paddock and twelve hours of a broad cross range of vehicles – that is good value in anyone’s language.

“We feel the event can grow into a carnival style atmosphere that is a viable alternative to other events in the region at that time of year – and we can do that by offering great value for money and a unique product.”

O’Brien expressed his desire to see the Bathurst 12 Hour develop into an iconic endurance race with a strong off-track entertainment element.

“As the product grows we intend to develop an off-track component to complement the event and develop a really unique event,” he said.

“We would like to see this event develop into one of the world’s premier endurance races. Held at one of the world’s iconic circuits, this is a real possibility provided we get the formula right and can overcome the tyranny of distance – there is no getting around the fact it is a very long way to come for teams from Europe and America.

“We need to keep working on this issue and hopefully the local competitors and spectators will continue to embrace the event.”