Sustainability
For most Year 12 students, balancing study, friends and future plans is enough of a challenge.
For local motorsport enthusiast Giancarlo, it’s all of that plus preparing to compete in one of Australia’s iconic endurance races: the 2026 Viola Private Wealth Winton 300 at Winton Motor Raceway in Benalla.
Giancarlo recently competed in the 300km endurance event aboard a Volkswagen Fun Cup race car, sharing driving duties with a teammate across a race that includes mandatory pit stops and long stints behind the wheel.
A Passion That Started Early
His passion for racing began early.
“My dad always had Formula 1 on in the background when I was growing up,” Giancarlo explained. “When I started karting at six years old, I became interested in watching it as well and it quickly became my own passion.”
Since those early karting days, motorsport has become much more than a hobby. It has taught discipline, focus and resilience while helping shape his ambitions for the future.
One of Giancarlo’s biggest inspirations is two-time Formula One World Champion Fernando Alonso, whose longevity and determination have made a lasting impression on the young driver.
While many people focus on the cars, Giancarlo says physical and mental preparation are just as important as driving skill.
“Maintaining physical and mental fitness is imperative,” he said. “Body conditioning is a requirement for maintaining stamina and mental stability during racing.”
Training for Endurance Racing
Access to South East Leisure’s facilities has become an important part of that preparation, helping him build strength and endurance while also supporting his overall wellbeing.
“Having access to South East Leisure’s venues and facilities has enabled me to meet the physical fitness requirements for racing while also enjoying the social side of being active with friends.”
Staying Active Beyond Motorsport
Away from the racetrack, Giancarlo enjoys staying active through a range of pursuits. A keen padel player, he was introduced to the sport while racing in India and was thrilled to discover the newly installed courts at Noble Park Aquatic Centre upon returning home.
“I couldn’t believe it when I got back and saw the courts had just been installed,” he said.
With Swiss heritage, snow skiing is another favourite pastime when he is not preparing for race weekends.
Giancarlo successfully took on the challenge of endurance racing at the Winton 300, proudly representing himself and the South East Leisure community in Victoria.
South East Leisure is proud to celebrate community members like Giancarlo, whose commitment to health, wellbeing and personal development demonstrates the positive impact that active lifestyles can have both on and off the track.
Congratulations Giancarlo in taking on the Winton 300.