She dedicated herself to her new passion, even working as a mechanic in exchange for the chance to compete in her first race series in Formula 2000 cars.

In 1998 Melanie finally got the chance to compete in the Canadian Formula Ford Championship. In her rookie year she finished a formidable 16th position out of 48 competitors. Continuing in the series in 2001, Melanie had a full season competing in all 8 races.

In 2002, Melanie secured a seat in the American Le Mans Series. She went on to win big in Trois Rivieres with a third place podium finish. And it just got better in Mosport where Melanie burned up the track earning a second podium win. Road Atlanta and the Petit Le Mans Series came next. A grueling 10 hour endurance race, Melanie ran in front of the field capturing a third podium win. Running in the American Le Mans Series in 2003 brought more success with another second place podium win in Trois Rivieres.

2004 finds Melanie gearing up for the Petit Le Mans Series, a 1,000 mile endurance event held in Braselton, Georgia.