OXFORDSHIRE riders Kristian Whatley and Luke Norris are all fired up for the first round of the Maxxis ACU British Motocross Championship to be held at the historic Culham Motoparc circuit near Abingdon tomorrow.

Culham, which has previously hosted many national events and even a Grand Prix, is a favoured track for dirt bike riders with its natural undulations and superb terrain.

Oxford-based Whatley, who won the championship in 2013, is gunning for glory in the 450cc MX1 class with the goal of a solid day across the two-race format.

“I love Culham. It’s a proper man’s track,” he said.

“I think everyone has had their fair share of get-offs and getting hurt there, especially on a four and half (450cc bike).

“It’s my hometown race really, the whole family will be there loving it and cheering me on, so hopefully I can get on the podium.

“It’s a track I enjoy, I’ve crashed there a fair few times, been knocked out, done my collarbone, done my clavicle with plating and everything like that, but besides that I do love riding it,” added the enthusiastic Apico Husqvarna rider.

“I like the ground, it’s rutty, it’s technical and it’s hard going.

“You really have to find your lines, be creative, and you can get away with things, but if it goes wrong you’re going home. It suits my style, and if the ground is right it will be good.”

Norris, from Bicester, has competed in the event since he was a youngster, and he will compete in the 250cc MX2 class.

He is also fond of the Culham track.

“I’ve raced there a lot over the years,” he said.

“I’ve had some really good memories from winning races in the youth ranks and some good results at British championship level.

“It’s definitely a track I love going back to and it helps just being down the road from me.”

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit rhlactivities.com