JIM RICHARDS HONOURED AT NATIONAL MOTOR RACING MUSEUM

A bronze portrait of motor racing legend Jim Richards was unveiled during race week 2009 at the National Motor Racing Museum, commemorating and acknowledging the incredible career of a man who has competed at Bathurst on 35 consecutive occasions - and won the Great Race seven times.

The bronze portrait will join those of other racing legends including Peter Brock, Wayne Gardner, Bob Jane and Sir Jack Brabham - and is on display in a special gallery area at the Museum.

Jim Richards is considered one of the most versatile and popular drivers to ever compete in motor sport. In addition to his seven Bathurst wins, Jim is a four-times winner of the Australian Touring Car Championship - with many wins in sports sedans, sports cars and tarmac rally wins in Targa Tasmania.

"We are very proud to add the bronze portrait of Jim Richards to the display at the National Motor Racing Museum, and commemorate his incredible career," said Bathurst Regional Council's Mayor Paul Toole.

"Congratulations also to renowned artist Julie Edgar, who has cast this wonderful portrait - adding another high-quality artwork to the gallery area and capturing the essence of one of our most popular drivers.

"I am delighted that Jim has been able to join us for the ceremony today and to be able to congratulate him in person for the many achievements in his long career," Mayor Toole said.