Reigning champ ready for title defence

HE'S facing the toughest opposition imaginable, but that isn't stopping Nathan Dawson from dreaming about successfully defending his title.

Capturing last season's Australian Drivers' Championship in Tasmania, Dawson will head to South Australia next week in a bid to retain his throne.

Attempting to become the first to claim consecutive victories in the series, the Queenslander will be pitted against five previous title holders!

Overall, a dozen drivers - two from each state - will clash over 10 heats at Globe Derby on December 29 for the honour of the nation's best for 2024.

"I've never driven in South Australia so I'm looking forward to getting down there and driving against some of the best in Australia," Dawson said. "It's pretty exciting when you look at the quality of drivers in it.

"No one has managed to win the series twice, but with six previous winners in it this year, someone could become the first...hopefully it's me!"

Citing Chris Alford as his most admired driver, Dawson stated he won't let any 'star struck' moments prevent him from trying to beat his idol.

"Chris has achieved the kind of things that every driver wants," Dawson said. "He is my most admired driver, but I still want to beat him.

"That's the thing about a series like this, we are all good mates off the track but very competitive on it.

"It will be a great night and hopefully it will attract a good crowd to create some atmosphere."