Six foreign drivers, mainly from the US, will provide added spice to the second annual Hamilton Go-Karting Grand Prix on Front Street tomorrow.

It is the first time drivers from overseas have competed with locals in the event, which has races in seven classes.

The six include Russell Gaglio, a Bermudian based in California, who will be among the favourites to win the 125 Shifter class, in which vehicles can top 55 mph.

Bermuda Karting Club vice-president John Madeiros said: "Russell lives in California but he came here to visit his family, found out we had a race and asked if he could use my kart.'' A total of 18 competitors have entered that race, with Delton White, a local who regularly competes abroad, another highly-rated contender.

"Delton's another possible candidate, he's running a real fast engine at the moment,'' Madeiros added. "And Jason North is another hell of a competitor.'' Last year's champion in the class, Ceon Smith, will not, however, be racing.

He was injured in an unrelated vehicle accident.

"We'll miss him,'' said Madeiros.

Richard Watlington and Ray Madeiros are among those who should excel in the 100cc Open class, which has a field of 12.

The other categories include the Yamaha Senior Light, Yamaha Can, Yamaha Senior Medium and the 80cc Comer.

Between 5,000 and 8,000 people were estimated to have attended last year's event and Madeiros is expecting more this time.

"Our only problem will be controlling them,'' he said. "We'd request that all spectators adhere to the safety restrictions which are in place to keep them and our drivers safe.'' Starting grids will be based on final scores from the track by February 20.

Practice racing will be held between 11.00 a.m. and 12.30 p.m. with the main event roaring into action at 1.00 p.m. and continuing for around four hours.