Glenroy Sinclair, Assignment Coordinator

A year ago, he attempted to take on the best of the crop of drivers at the Dover Raceway, St Ann, but was forced on to the sidelines because of mechanical problems.

This year, he is back again and Gerald Rhoden and his Epic Prototype car ready for the challenge.

His entry has added to the intense battle anticipated David Summerbell, Doug Gore, Peter Rae, Tedroy Burton, Marck Carey and hopefully, the 'big man', Peter 'Bull' Thompson.

Rhoden, who is originally from Clarendon, journeyed from Denver, Colorado, in the United States, to Jamaica, just to parade his skills.

Corrected

The problems he had with the car a year ago have since been corrected.

"We have corrected the problem and although my car is not as poweful as the others, I will be taking the challenge to them," said Rhoden, who operates a trucking business in the US.

Thousands expected

On Sunday, thousands of spectators are expected to make the trip again, negotiating the dusty, hilly, unpaved roadway, which leads to the country's premier circuit-racing track.

The Cable and Wireless-sponsored event has been dubbed the 'Freedom of Wheels' race meet.

Following the qualifying sessions, the first race is scheduled to begin at noon on a day when riders will also add to the spectacle.

"There will be motorcycle racing again. Dennis Chin Quee and Adrian Blake are a part of the group who will be riding," said Hilary Jardine, president of the Jamaica Race Drivers' Club.

Mechanical problems

Peter Rae, who had some serious mechanical problems at the previous race meet, said his team had already corrected the suspension of his 'Zum Zum' RX7 Mazda.

"I am coming all out," said Rae.

Tedroy Burton confirmed that he is razor sharp for this meet, and Wayne Leahong has rallied support for his 17-year-old daughter, Ornealla, who will be making her debut at the track. She will be one of the youngest to race at Dover.

"I will be driving a 1989 SX Corolla," said an excited Ornealla, who spoke with The Gleaner yesterday. She will be competing in the IP 37 Class.