Victorian youngster Fraser Ross has bounced back from an incident in practice to secure the GT3 Cup Challenge title at Phillip Island.
The 24-year-old finished fourth in the opening race of the final round, trailing home winner Matt Campbell, John McCorkindale and John Goodacre.
The result came after Ross’ crew were forced to make overnight repairs following an off track excursion on Friday.
“I knew I had to finish 12th or better so I did what I needed to do,” he said post-race.
“To finish fourth is fantastic and we’ve got the title.
“Winning the championship means a great deal to me. It’s awesome to put a great year together with the best crew and great supporters, most of all being Dad.”
Campbell had taken pole by a stunning 1.5 seconds, but trailed Goodacre over the opening two laps after the South Australian blasted through from third on the grid with a strong start.
It didn’t take long for 19-year-old Campbell to regain the ascendancy however, retaking the lead on the third lap before pulling away to a 13 second win.
Behind Ross, Tim Miles claimed fifth from Peter Fitzgerald, Jed Wallis, John Karytinos, Sam Shahin and Ross McGregor.
Eleventh outright was Class B winner Brenton Grove, marking a strong performance on debut for the 17-year-old son of Carrera Cup racer Stephen.
A further two races on Sunday at the Shannons Nationals meeting will complete the GT3 Cup Challenge season.