The Victorian is widely regarded as one of the most talented drivers in the category, yet has failed to make an impact after a series of crashes, punctures, and mechanical failures dampened the serious pace shown by the #3 Ford Mustang on multiple occasions this year.

The carnage began in the opening round of the season, when Grice was hit from the rear by James Simpson’s Dodge Challenger, causing significant damage.

Purchase tickets for the Race Sydney and Supercheap Auto Bathurst International double-header here.

The write-off incident came after claiming an emphatic pole position earlier in the weekend, before then converting the position into a season-high second place finish behind series leader, James Moffat.

The 32-year-old was then bound for a haul of points the following round at Phillip Island, before a tyre failure in the third and final race turned the weekend on its head.

Other notable results include qualifying in third at Race Winton, and most recently qualifying on the front row at Sandown Raceway – meaning when things are going the Victorian’s way, he is well and truly in the fight.

This was proven in the most recent Trans Am round, where consistent finishes at Sandown saw Grice finish fourth outright, a mere four points behind another privateer entry, Elliot Barbour.

Ahead of Race Sydney and Supercheap Auto Bathurst International, Grice opted to focus on giving back to his team with results he knows he can achieve, rather than dwell on the past.

“Considering we got turned around and still managed to finish third at Sandown, it was alright,” Grice said.

“It’s been a pretty tough year with that accident in Tasmania, and we have been unlucky with tyre failures when in a position to win at Phillip Island. The speed has always been there and we have led laps, but it just hasn’t seemed to work out for us.

“We have had a bunch of mechanical failures as well. It’s plain old bad luck, but you have just got to keep getting up.

“We have been able to qualify on the front row, lead laps – but shit happens when you go car racing. It’s how you deal with the crisis and move on. You don’t get anywhere sooking about it. You have got to get on with it, cop it on the chin and focus on the next one.

“While we aren’t in the championship picture, it’s about winning races, having a good time and repaying the team with results we know that we can achieve.

“I have one of the best privateer teams in the category, if not the country. They show up and give me a good car, so it’s time to give them back the results.

“Last year we were second at both Sydney and Bathurst, the plan is to go one better next year and rock up and win all the races.

“We are definitely in for a shot, lets stick it to ‘em!”

National Trans Am Series will feature under the lights at Sydney Motorsport Park for Race Sydney on 3-4 November, then returning one week later for Supercheap Auto Bathurst International on 10-12 November.

Tickets to both events can be purchased here.