Van Gisbergen reveals 'funky' cramping fix

A new seat could prove a saving grace for Shane van Gisbergen as he finds more comfort in his new car.

One of the tallest drivers on the Supercars grid, van Gisbergen — at 188cm — revealed he has battled with cramping at times this season.

Heading to the betr Darwin Triple Crown, van Gisbergen is 172 points down in fourth overall.

The day’s running saw the northern teams tackle Ipswich’s Queensland Raceway to find more speed in their Gen3 cars.

Co-drivers also completed running, with Richie Stanaway joining van Gisbergen in the #97 Red Bull Ampol Racing Camaro.

However, van Gisbergen also took time during Thursday’s test to get acquainted with his new seat.

“We had to make a new seat because my legs keep cramping, the way you have to sit,” he said.

“I’m kind of sitting all funky to try to get comfortable.”

It’s a different story for Stanaway, who is 12cm shorter than van Gisbergen.

Stanaway used the first test in the new Camaro to find comfort, and the team identified fixes that could help.

Notably, Stanaway now has a seat insert, which he can take in and out before and after pit stops.

Come Thursday, and Stanaway was much happier, noting the adjustable pedal box as being key to his improvements.

“It’s great to get more laps in the car, the last time I drove it was at the test in February,” he said.

Broc Feeney [L] and Jamie Whincup are a closer match in height

“The main thing for me [today] was getting comfortable in the car with a proper seat insert.

“To be fitting into the car now is a good feeling, to check that off the list.

“Driving with Shane, I was a bit anxious I'd be compromised in my position.

“Luckily with the sliding pedal box in the new car, I can get exactly how I want to sit in the car.

“Another key thing is working on the blip in the throttle response, with me trying to left-foot brake.”

Stanaway will make his Triple Eight Supercars debut at the September 15-17 Penrite Oil Sandown 500.

The Repco Bathurst 1000 will be held on October 5-8. Tickets for both events are on sale now.