Fifteen races are down for decision on today’s opening local circuit meet at the Dover Race Track in St Ann, beginning at 9:00 am with practise and briefing.

Approximately 60 to 65 circuit racing drivers are expected to compete in 12 motorcar races and three motorcycle races. The first race revs off at approximately 10:15 am after Member of Parliament Othneil Lawrence declares the meet officially open.

The drivers will compete in five classes — Thundersport, Improved Production (IP) 27, IP 33, IP 37 and IP 45. For the first time, riders will be classified in A and B, with the B class riders given a 30-second jump start.

The Improved Production classes are modified cars, which are qualified by times.

“We are very optimistic that the meet is going to be very successful, despite the recession,” Hilary Jardine, president of the Jamaica Race Drivers Club (JRDC), told the Observer.

“The JRDC is very positive in our thinking, we are moving ahead with our plans,” he added.

The Thundersport section is expected to showcase reigning Caribbean champion David Summerbell Jnr in his new red car sponsored by Total; 2007 Caribbean champion Doug Gore, who will sport a vehicle sponsored by Sherwin Williams and Condom; defending local champion Chris Campbell, along with Gary Williams, Peter Rae, Guy Fraser, Peter ‘Bull’ Thompson, among others.

Defending champion Stefan Chin will lead Adrian Blake, Dennis Chin-Quee, Halquin Rodney, Emiel Janier and company in the riding events.

Jardine also revealed that the JRDC has established a VIP All-Inclusive stand for patrons which will have the amenities of comfortable seating, television sets for viewing the entire races, food and drinks all day for a fee of $4,000. There is an entry fee of $1,500 and gates are set to open at 7:00 am.