Trice Closes 2024 Season with a Fierce Performance at Brands Hatch
Porsche Sprint Challenge GB: Rounds 16, 17 & 18
Location: Brands Hatch GP 3.916km
Qualified P11 1:29.539
Race One: P8
Race Two: P11
Race Three: P9
Local racing talent, Toby Trice, rounded off the 2024 Porsche Sprint Challenge GB season with a strong showing at Brands Hatch. Returning to his home circuit for the first time in over two years, Trice fought through mechanical challenges and intense competition to secure solid finishes across the weekend.
Trice entered the weekend with high hopes and plenty of excitement. "I felt very excited to be heading into Brands Hatch because it had been just over two years since I had competed there, and being my local track, I knew the support was going to be fantastic,” he said.
However, practice and qualifying threw up unexpected challenges. "The car didn't quite feel right during free practice," Trice revealed. "It was almost nervous and twitchy, particularly at the back of the circuit. After qualifying 1.344 seconds off the pole lap, I just knew something wasn't right. This landed me in P11, and Clean Racing quickly identified a mechanical issue with the rear right wheel, which was affecting the car’s performance during the session."
Despite the setback, Trice and his team remained focused on putting on a great performance for their guests.
In Race 1, Trice wasted no time climbing through the field, moving from P11 to P8 in the early stages. “I knew I had to attack but also keep the car safe for the rest of the weekend,” he explained. Unfortunately, the race was cut short by a safety car, leaving Trice frustrated but understanding. “It was a little frustrating as I was making good progress, but thankfully the driver who crashed out was okay."
Race 2 saw Trice start from P8 and jump straight into the battle, reaching P5 early on. "I had a fantastic start, putting myself right into the fight," he said. "But my front right tire was fading faster than I realised. I was defending hard against Hammerton, but pushing the limits led to a 5-second penalty for running wide. Hugely frustrating, but it was a solid battle."
The final race of the weekend saw Trice play a more tactical game, starting P11 and finishing P9. With two major championship battles unfolding around him, Trice opted to support his teammate and secure safe finishes for the team. “I helped my teammate Matt Kyle-Henney secure his vice-championship and picked off some places early in the race,” Trice said. “There are battles you have to pick and choose, and this race wasn't one of them. We brought the car home safe, ready to fight another day."
Trice was quick to credit his Clean Racing team for their tireless efforts throughout the weekend. "Guy, Mark, and Ed did a fantastic job all weekend. Once we found the issue with the rear wheel, the car felt incredibly confidence-inspiring,” Trice said. "Ed, my number one, gave everything to ensure things were perfect for me. I've really enjoyed working with him this season, and we’ve built a strong bond for the future."
Brands Hatch was not just the final race of the season, but also a celebration for Trice’s supporters and sponsors.
“Our sponsors had an incredible weekend, and we had guests everywhere cheering us on during an eventful set of races. It’s always a great feeling to put on a show for them,”
The Racing for Fertility campaign, which has been at the heart of Trice’s racing efforts, also had a powerful presence at Brands Hatch. "It felt emotional, being the last event of the season, but as always, we had plenty of important fertility conversations and continued making a difference in this unique way,” Trice said.
Trice also gave a heartfelt shoutout to his growing fanbase, the Bobble Army: "Seeing more and more of those orange bobble hats in the crowd filled me with pride. It’s become a staple of the paddock, and I’m so grateful for their support."
Reflecting on the season, Trice acknowledged the challenges but remained optimistic. "2024 has been a frustrating year, with what felt like everything against us at times, but our determination to keep pushing has been incredible. I can honestly say I’m a far better driver now than I was last season," he said. “Overcoming a difficult end to 2023 and regaining my confidence this season has been huge for me, and I’m excited for what’s to come."
As the 2024 season wraps up, Trice is already hard at work preparing for 2025. “The focus now is on securing the budget for next year and working hard on my fitness and mental strength during the winter. Big things are ahead, but for now, we’re keeping those announcements under wraps.”
