News
Not just a new model, but fresh ideas hold HMO Customer Racing in good stead for Bathurst
Excitement is high for HMO Customer Racing as it prepares for the Australian debut of the Hyundai Elantra N (i30 Sedan N) TCR at the Supercheap Auto Bathurst International this weekend.
The team’s leading title contender Josh Buchan will make the switch to the new model at Bathurst with the aim of taking HMO Customer Racing’s second Supercheap Auto TCR Australia title. There is work to be done as Buchan is 83-points behind series leader Tony D’Alberto, but after a successful testing program is buoyant about his chances.
“There is a lot of excitement and anticipation with the debut of the new Hyundai i30 Sedan N TCR this weekend,” Buchan explained.
“We think the car has the potential to be a very fast car at Mount Panorama, but Bathurst is such a unique circuit, and we need to learn quickly how to unlock its potential.
“The series is still alive and there is a lot to be gained if everything goes right for us and take away a trophy or two. But, if anything, it is a great opportunity to get a head start on the series for 2023.”
While Buchan has a new model, Nathan Morcom is hoping progressive gains found during testing will be beneficial at Bathurst alongside engineer Aaron Grech, who joins as his dedicated engineer.
“We had a test day at Winton a couple of weeks ago and tried some new ideas on the Hyundai i30 N TCR with my engineer Aaron Grech that felt really good,” Morcom explained.
“I didn’t have a dedicated engineer on my car at Bathurst earlier this year, so I’m feeling confident we can run at the pointy end this weekend and finish off the season on a high.
“I just want to have a red hot go. I’m aiming for the podium and wins at Bathurst.”
Rookie sensation this season Bailey Sweeny won last time out at Mount Panorama, but his aiming to secure a top 10 result in the standings at the Supercheap Auto Bathurst International.
“I can’t wait to get back in the car this weekend at Bathurst and hopefully repeat the success we had earlier this year,” Sweeny emphasised.
“Obviously, the conditions will be a lot different compared to the cooler weather when we competed here in April, and the races are significantly longer. But I think both of those elements will play into our hands, as the Hyundai i30 N TCR is very good on its tyres and we should be faster than our rivals at the end of the race.”
Tickets are available at https://bathurst.international/
If you can’t make it to Mount Panorama, broadcast can be seen live and ad-break free on Stan Sport on Saturday and Sunday. Sign up now for your free 7-day trial >> https://www.stan.com.au/watch/sport/motorsport
The Nine Network will also offer live free-to-air coverage on 9Gem from 3pm-5pm AEDT. Check your local guides.
International viewers can watch on https://motorsport.tv/