Here’s a story that defies every stereotype you’ve ever heard about parenthood and racing: Just days after becoming a first-time father, Supercars star Cam Waters didn’t slow down—he sped up, shattering expectations and nearly rewriting history. But here’s where it gets controversial: Does becoming a parent really slow drivers down, or could it actually unlock a new level of focus and determination? Waters’ jaw-dropping performance at the Bathurst 12 Hour Pole Battle suggests the latter, as he became the first Australian in four years to claim the prestigious Allan Simonsen Pole Trophy.
In a thrilling display of precision and speed, Waters clocked an astonishing 2:01.0790s lap time, securing his first Bathurst 12 Hour pole position. This wasn’t just any pole—it was the second-fastest in the event’s history, a mere 0.19 seconds shy of Maro Engel’s 2023 record. And this is the part most people miss: Waters also joined an elite club, becoming only the third driver to achieve the Bathurst 1000-Bathurst 12 Hour (GT3 era) pole double, alongside legends Chaz Mostert and Shane van Gisbergen.
Teaming up with Mostert and Thomas Randle in the #222 Scott Taylor Motorsport Mercedes-AMG, Waters will start Sunday’s race from the front row alongside Lucas Auer in the #77 Craft-Bamboo Mercedes-AMG. Speaking of Auer, he delivered a performance that demands attention—his lap time today was faster than his pole-winning effort from last year, yet it still wasn’t enough to dethrone Waters. Is this the dawn of a new rivalry in Supercars?
‘It’s unbelievable,’ Waters said, his emotions raw after the win. ‘To win the Allan Simonsen Trophy is super special. Allan was an incredible person, and I was lucky enough to meet him a few times. This one’s for him.’ Waters also credited his team, highlighting the collaborative effort that fine-tuned the car to perfection. ‘Having Baz [Ryan], Chaz, and the entire team’s expertise made this car a dream to drive,’ he added. ‘We’re in a great spot for tomorrow, and I’m determined to keep this momentum going.’
The Pole Battle itself was a masterclass in competition, with drivers battling not just each other but also the new Pirelli P Zero DHG tyres. Broc Feeney kicked things off with a 2:08.6926s lap, but it was Marco Mapelli who set the early benchmark with a 2:01.9912s in his Lamborghini. Waters, however, had other plans, edging ahead with a 2:01.9221s before sealing the deal with his record-breaking lap in the final minutes.
Auer, Stolz, and Campbell pushed hard, but Mercedes-AMG locked out the top three spots, underscoring their dominance. The top 10 was rounded out by Haase, Mapelli, Marciello, Andrews, Feeney, and Ojeda, each delivering performances that showcased the depth of talent in the field.
As the 2026 Bathurst 12 Hour kicks off at 5:45 a.m. local time on Sunday, one question lingers: Can Waters convert this pole into a historic victory, or will the competition fight back? And here’s a thought to spark debate: In an era where technology often steals the spotlight, is Waters’ achievement a reminder that the human element—focus, determination, and sheer willpower—still reigns supreme in racing? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
This article first appeared on Supercars.com and was reproduced with permission. (https://www.bathurst12hour.com.au/news/2026-bathurst-12-hour-pole-battle-results-quickest-report-cam-waters-lucas-auer-mercedes-starting-grid)
