Swan Auto Parts recently sponsored Leo Getz Racing at Melonaid

The end of October 2024 saw an electrifying atmosphere at Shell V-Power Motorsport Park (otherwise known as The Bend) which played host to Melonaid, arguably the biggest motorsport endurance racing event of the year.
With 25 hours of competitive racing, 65 vehicles, and three colossal days, the event promised unprecedented challenges.
Swan Auto Parts, alongside AutoTrace and PIN Australia, proudly sponsored Leo Getz Racing in their 2010 Hyundai Getz, which faced a myriad of teams and vehicles from across the country.
The event showcased the relentless passion for motorsport with multiple track layouts, including the iconic 35-corner, 7.77km GT layout and the favourite international layout for V8 Supercar enthusiasts. Precision, endurance, and unwavering concentration were paramount.
Amongst almost 60 other vehicles, including Nissan 350Zs, BMWs, and Toyota Corollas, the Leo Getz Racing team of experienced drivers, Kristian Downing, Peter Gluskie, Nigel Joyce, and Ross Smith, with decades of racing under their belts, were supported by team manager Emma Smith, monitoring the car’s vital signs using AutoTrace products.
The race began with a rolling start, but 20 laps in, Kristian reported power issues, and the car dropped into limp mode. Despite meticulous preparations, mechanical problems threatened to derail the weekend.
The team sprang into action, troubleshooting and sourcing needed parts, with support from other teams, competitors, and nearby stores. The spirit of motorsport camaraderie shone through as rival teams offered expertise, tools, and moral support.
While waiting for parts, the team replaced spark plugs, ignition coils, and leads supplied by Swan and tightened the suspension, swapped brake pads, and kept busy to distract from the looming issue.
Along with the other sponsors, AutoTrace, and PIN Australia, Swan provided unwavering support, ensuring the team had resources to monitor, troubleshoot, and manage the Getz.
As tension mounted, a sense of solidarity emerged. After eight hours of work, changing every sensor and even the ECU, it was discovered the issue might be an O2 sensor.
With trepidation, the O2 sensor cable was cut, and the car roared back to life, ready for the remaining 18 hours.
Slightly down on power but back on track, the Getz tackled the GT layout, which demanded agility and precision.
The last two days were a battle against fatigue and anxiety over the O2 sensor fix. The upgraded ignition systems worked perfectly, and the teams’ dynamics, sharpened by adversity, ensured seamless pit stops and driver changes.
On the final day, with a track temperature approaching 42 degrees, the Getz was able to complete the full eight hours of racing.
Running fifth in class and 36th outright, the Getz could see the checkered flag, pulling onto the straight for the final run as the entire crew cheered the little Hyundai along as the flag waved, signalling the race’s end.
The team reports the sense of accomplishment was overwhelming, with Swan stating the Melonaid at Shell V-Power Motorsport Park was more than just a race; it exemplified the tenacious spirit of motorsport, where competition meets collaboration, and challenges are met with determination and solidarity.

For more from Swan Auto Parts, please visit www.swanzone.com.au