KYE Walters will begin his championship defence when Round One of the Victorian Modified Production Association Series kicks off at Timmis Speedway Mildura this weekend. 
Walters was the Series champion last season, finishing ahead of racing veteran Andrew Blackwell and the talent of Brock Atkins.
Last year he claimed the feature event at Mildura for the Series, making it three VMPA feature wins on the trot.
Walters is the first to admit the Sunraysia track doesn’t always play nice with the driver of the Australian Number One, with the pilot typically struggling in the heats before coming on strong when it matters.
“People that know me know I’m not the biggest fan of the track,” Walters said.
“But in the past I have just been fast enough to capitalise.
“I love the complex and it’s people, (it’s) one of the best in the country.
“I just find it hard to heat race and pass cars until the track slows down but it’s part of the challenge!”
Walter finished third, second and second in his three heats last time the VMPA graced the Mildura track, which seen him qualify fifth for the Pole Shuffle, and after not being able to capitalise, start the feature from the same position.
In the main event, Walters was able to do what he does best and wheel the pointy end of the field down, claiming the chequered flag.
The 21-year-old is looking forward to getting back out on track for the Series.
“I’m super excited,” he said.
“The VMPA is a super professional Series so it’s a heap of fun to be apart of!
“Thirty cars this weekend will be a challenge for sure!
“It should be fun though.”
Walters heads into this weekend with only two meetings this season in the seat, the most recent a run at Moama.
“We learnt some more stuff on the slick, plus it’s always good to turn some laps,” he said of his most recent hit-out.
Spectators taking in the action of the VMPA this weekend will be treated to some new faces within the class including Lachlan Fitzpatrick, Ricky Cornwall, Brad Wicks, Todd Atkins and Darran Lester.
“It’s truly exciting,” Walters said.
“There’s some new kids from Juniors stepping up and some very accomplished racers joining the class.
“It’s awesome really!”
There will also be plenty of local talent behind the wheel including that of Jeremy McClure, Peter McCarthy, Jake Drewett, David Smith, Taleah Dolic, Jarod Waters, Wade McCarthy, Daniel Drewett and Angelo Halacas.
With the depth of the locals, Walters said they’ll be among the drivers to watch for this weekend, describing them as “ultra fast” in their backyard.
“But there’s 30 cars entered and honestly there could be 30 winners,” he added.
SPONSORS: True Design Homes, Chris Edwards Custom Racecars, Bratt Race Engineering, CM Towing and Transport, Highside Promotion, I and J Speedway Equipment, Max Fry Smash Repairs, Mobile Sandblasting and Protective Coatings and Rat Industry’s.
