KARTER Tristram Oman can put one hand on a prestigious European title this weekend.

The 24-year-old, who lives near Stockton, has already won two rounds of the European Mojo Rotax Challenge for HRS Motorsport, based at the Warden Law Motorsports Centre near Sunderland.

With just two more to go, the South Shields born driver must go into Round Three at the twisty A1 Speedworld circuit in Austria on Sunday as the favourite.

However, Oman is taking nothing for granted against a field which includes series champions from across the world.

"After the last round at the PF International circuit in the UK, we said we had to remember some of our closest rivals were unlucky and were relegated down the grid for the final as a result, " he said.

"This weekend, it could be our turn.

The situation could change very quickly and the last thing we want is to slip up just because we were too complacent.

"Of course, we know another victory could decide the championship but we have to keep our focus and make sure we remain professional."

Oman won by four seconds in the final in Salbris, France, at the opening rounds of the series in March but had to fight harder for victory in May at the PF International circuit near Grantham, only taking the lead on the final lap after losing places as a result of contact early in the race.

HRS has also had another moraleboosting win since with victory in the British Rotax Super One series at PF International earlier this month taking Oman to the top of the championship and on course for a famous double.

"Like Warden Law, the Austrian circuit we're racing on this weekend has a good mix of straights and corners so the drivers' skill is just as important as raw power, " said an HRS spokesman. "The variety can make set-up a challenge but, we've been strong so far.

"Of course, victory would be fantastic - but just the fact we're in with a chance says a lot about how far we've come already."

Published: 29/07/2005