NORMAN Minott, newly appointed president of the Jamaica Race Drivers Club (JRDC), will face his first test at Monday’s Heroes Day meet at Dover Raceway in St Ann.

And based on his preliminary assessments, it is shaping up to be a successful one.

He says tickets sales, so far, are encouraging.

“We have gone the pre-sale route and things are looking positive,” Minott tells Auto.

Minott, a lawyer by profession, assumed the JRDC’s reins when the club’s president Chris McFarlane, stepped down in September.

The JRDC, revived in 2003, organises and promotes the sport of motor racing in Jamaica, primarily at Dover Raceway.

He is urging circuit racing fans to come prepared for an exciting 18 race-card meet.

“We expect some serious competition in the respective classes, and of course, there is the showdown between headliners David Summerbell and Doug Gore.”

Gore, who drives the ATL-sponsored Audi TT-R DTM, opted to stay away from last August’s Independence of Speed meet. His return to the track is expected to bring some star power to the Modified Production class.

In addition, Minott says the Bracket 27, 32, and 38 classes were merged to make the outing more competitive.

As far as track preparations are concerned, he says they were way ahead of schedule.

“Things are coming together nicely,” he adds.

— Brian Bonitto