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Michael Trevor Burgmann was a Sydney accountant and racing car driver who tragically lost his life during the 1986 James Hardie 1000 race at the Mount Panorama Circuit in Bathurst, New South Wales.
In today’s article, we take a look into his life as we explore more about him as well as his spouse.
Who Is Michael Burgmann?
Born on 3 June 1947, Michael Burgmann became known for his involvement in motorsports and also worked as an accountant for the Australian Racing Drivers Club (ARDC), promoter of the Bathurst 1000 and owners of Amaroo Park in Sydney.
Burgmann began his racing career in the early 1980s, primarily at the Amaroo Park-based AMSCAR Series. He made his debut in the Bathurst 1000 in 1983, driving a Chevrolet Camaro alongside Tony Longhurst.
However, technical troubles hampered their race, and they were unable to complete it.
Burgmann switched to a Mazda RX-7 and raced in the Bathurst 1000 alongside Bob Stevens in 1984. Despite qualifying in 39th place, they managed to finish 8th, only 10 circuits behind the winning car.
Burgmann’s success continued when he drove a Holden VK Commodore in 1985 and 1986. However, engine failure resulted in a DNF after only 93 laps in 1985.
During the 1986 Bathurst 1000, tragedy struck. Burgmann and his co-driver, Mal Rose, were competing in the Commodore SS Group A specification, which had been updated.
Burgmann’s car became airborne over a hump on Conrod Straight on lap 5, while attempting to pass Garry Willmington’s Jaguar XJS at high speeds. Despite his best attempts, the car slammed into the tyre barrier at the end of Conrod Straight.
Burgmann was forced out of his seat due to a broken seat belt clasp, and the impact severely damaged the front of the car.
Unfortunately, he died shortly after arriving at Bathurst Hospital. Burgmann was the first driver to die at the Bathurst 1000.
Several changes were made to the Mount Panorama Circuit as a result of Burgmann’s sad tragedy and the necessity to meet FIA safety criteria for the 1987 World Touring Car Championship.
Conrod Straight now has a chicane, which eliminates the deadly second hump. In addition, new pits and garages were built, enhancing the circuit’s overall safety and functionality.
A memorial remembering Burgmann’s life and terrible death was unveiled near the site where his car came to rest. It serves as a reminder of the dangers and sacrifices that come with participating in racing. Michael Burgmann was survived by his wife, Gaye, and four young children.
Who Is Mike Burgmann’s Wife?
Gaye Burgmann was the pretty wife of Sydney accountant and racing car driver Michael Bruhmann. Tho much is not known about her as she likes to live a private life, she is a proud mother of four children.
