Aaron Cannonier is determined to start the new year with a strong performance when the Trophy Series resumes at Bermuda Motosports Park in Southside, St David’s, tomorrow.

The 37-year-old motocross rider is in a strong position in the Over-30 class, leading second-placed Lorenzo Burch by six points. He is also guaranteed a podium finish in the Expert class, sitting in third place with 40 points behind leader Jazuri Easton-Thompson (50) and Preston Martin (44) heading into the final two races.

Cannonier dominated the Over-30 class on Boxing Day, winning both heats, and secured third place in both Expert class races, despite challenging conditions.

“Boxing Day for the Over-30 and Expert classes was very challenging due to the weather and the track being muddy,” Cannonier told The Royal Gazette. “My plan was to stay up and finish the races. For New Year’s race, I plan on riding smart and being in contention for podium finishes as an overall winner in both classes.”

Cannonier has not been as active locally this season, having competed in the Gatorback Mini Olympics in Gainesville, Florida, where he finished 20th in most of his races out of 41 riders.

“Racing here has been limited as I’ve been competing overseas, but I’m excited to be back and looking forward to giving it my all,” he added.

Expert class leader Easton-Thompson is equally focused, holding a six-point lead over Martin heading into the series finale. The overseas-based rider, who is competing at home for the first time in nearly a year, is confident about his chances.

“I am going to have fun, relax, stay safe and just ride my race,” he said. “The weather should be better, and it will be more exciting with a few more riders on the line for New Year’s Race. It’s going to come down to the start, technical skill and who can hang in.”

Zano Tucker, who had high expectations leading into the Boxing Day event, was notably absent from the Expert class races.

Easton-Thompson was one of four riders to record a clean sweep of victories on Boxing Day, alongside Novice class leader Shaddai Williams, 85cc leader A’Jahni Foggo and 65cc leader Tinho Tucker Wall.

Racing begins at noon.