Buoyed by the exposure and experience gained in the United States, a number of the island's go-karters are expected to go up against each other this afternoon in what could turn out to be a major showdown at the Palisadoes International Raceway, Kingston.

"The events in the 80cc and mini-max classes should be exciting," said Dave Wong, president of the Jamaica Karting Association (JKA).

points standing

In keeping with the JKA points standing, Joshua Sirgany leads the group with 102 points in the 80cc class ahead of his cousin, Justin Sirgany, who has 93.5 points, followed by Richard Lechler in third place with 88.5 points.

If Joshua Sirgany can repeat the form which helped him to qualify on pole for the heats at last weekend's US Rotax Grand National Finals, in Oklahoma, then his rivals could get a free lesson in how to be an outstanding go-karter.

"He came back from the US Rotax Grand National glowing and today I am expecting him to make his mark in the 80cc class," said his driving coach, Peter Rae.

chequered flag

In the meantime, Thomas Issa is the favourite to dominate today's Rotax mini-max class, especially after his fourth-place finish at the US Grand National finals, but Jonathan Law should be breathing down his neck.

"Jonathan's lap times have been improving and I am expecting him to take the chequered flag today," said his father, Sam Law.

Law is among a small batch of karters who have some experience on the Miami circuit, having competed in several race meets over the past eight weeks, while Issa leads the group with 100 points. His nearest rival is William Myers who has 20 points fewer than Law, the latter of whom is at the bottom of the table with 36 points. Budding star, Colin Daley Jr, who has also competed on the Miami circuit, is another go-karter to watch today.

In the meantime, Stephanie McConnell believes her son, Frazer McConnell, is the competitor to watch in the Rotax mini-max class. But in the absence of Justin Wong and Philip Myers, who are both overseas, Colin Daley Jr, Matthew Williams, Chad Leahong and Samantha Summerbell are expected to put on a fine show.

- Glenroy Sinclair