GROUP Four local and 2017 Caribbean Motor Racing Championship (CMRC) champion Andrew King is set and ready for this weekend’s National Race of Champions.

Piloting his Mazda Rx7, sponsored by Toucan and GTT, King spoke to Chronicle Sport on Wednesday, saying that he was up and running.

“It’s the opening event for the year so I ‘kinda’ dusted off the cobwebs and will do some more practice before the event,” he said.

“From what I understand a few of the top drivers may not be participating but whatever it is, I’ll be there to take part. I always take my racing seriously so once we get up to line, we should have a good day of racing,” the defending champion added.

He noted that winning the 2017 championship presents no pressure as the year begins, especially knowing that he is the man to beat.

“I don’t consider myself being the benchmark at this point in time. There are a lot of people who are faster than I am. I just want to be competing in each and every event.”

The King, as he is known among many said, “This (racing) is what I like doing. It’s not going to change and I’ll be competing at whatever events are available and will be taking part in the Caribbean series as well.”

Meanwhile, the club has confirmed a 21-race programme for Sunday which is expected to begin at 09:00hrs. It will feature action in both cars and bikes. The event is sponsored by Tropical Shipping, STAG and Mohamed’s Enterprise.