THE local circuit-racing season will open with two days of activities, the Jamaica Race Drivers Club (JRDC) revealed at a press conference held at the Sports Development Foundation on Phoenix Avenue, St Andrew, on Tuesday.

The event dubbed Texaco with Techron Carnival of Speed is scheduled for April 20 and 21 at the Dover Raceway in St Ann.

“All qualifying will take place on Sunday, free to the public, with Monday being a full race day,” Dean Corrodus, meet organiser, told Auto.

The JRDC is the body responsible for promoting circuit racing in Jamaica.

The extra day of racing is to facilitate an expanded race programme that the JRDC hopes will keep fans excited about Dover Raceway. Carnival of Speed will have more action as each class sees a boost to three races per day, while the laps per race have been extended.

At the launch, the JRDC took the time to welcome new title sponsor GB Group through their Texaco brand.

“It’s a pleasure to partner with the JRDC. I can assure them we’re in it for the long haul,” said Keith Parkes, marketing executive GB Group.

The JRDC has also moved to make things more fan-centric, promising a boost in the quality of the facilities, better parking, and a new VIP service in partnership with associate sponsor Knutsford Express. Included in this is the chance for one lucky patron to win a trip to Barbados along with the race driver who scores the most points for the meet, for the Top Gear Festival in May.

Having every intention of defending his hard-fought 2013 overall driver’s title is Andre Anderson.

“The car is ready, so am I. I want to retain both my overall and class championships,” he said.

Kyle Reynolds, who spoke for the bikers at the launch, indicated that they’ve been practising and around 16 bikes are tentative for competition on race day.

The JRDC will put on a promotional tour through Mandeville, Manchester, this Saturday starting at 3:00 pm.