NEW Zealand’s latest Supercars wunderkind Matt Payne believes it worked out for the best that he didn’t go full-time in the main game in 2022.
For a time, it appeared Grove Racing would try to fast-track Payne’s ascension.
However, it became clear soon enough the powers that be were not in favour of that plan, effectively forcing the Groves to hire Lee Holdsworth as a stop-gap while Payne plied his trade for a full Super2 campaign.
That has paid dividends, with Payne seemingly more rounded now as the Gen3 reset awaits.
He had showed an extraordinary mix of talent and rawness in two Super2 rounds late last year, qualifying superbly between a flurry of errors.
Twelve months on and Payne has completed a fine season, claiming rookie of the year honours with third overall.
The 20-year-old feels far more ready now for a promotion, which has been confirmed for 2023.
“Last year when I joined at SMP (Sydney Motorsport Park), we were really speedy but I think my inexperience showed a lot making a few crucial mistakes,” said Payne.
“This year I think was all pretty much about learning and I think we have achieved pretty much all of that and are ready to tackle next year.
“I’ll look back (on Super2) as it being very well worth it and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time racing these guys and spending time with my team.
“It has been awesome, a little group of guys, so it has been a cool experience.”
Payne will next year benefit from the mentorship of 2007 Supercars champion Garth Tander, who will also hop into one of the Penrite Mustangs for the Sandown 500 and Repco Bathurst 1000.
