``This is my first time overseas to compete,'' Gread said.

``It's really exciting and we've been working hard for it all year

He said approximately 200 drivers compete in the event, which will be in its tenth year.

``We have to be there by December 5 at the latest to sign in, but I think we'll head over a few days earlier so we can acclimatise and have a look around the sights.''

He said he's been training hard and had high hopes for the race.

``Anything is possible, but we'll be going there as best prepared as we can and we'll be working hard to win it,'' he said.

``Most weekends we go out to practice to keep my mind up to speed with it all, and in terms of fitness training, I'm in a the gym on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays doing a lot of fitness, cardio and light weights work.''

Gread, 21, said motor sports was always a passion of his father's and he really became interested at age 14 when he received a go-kart at Christmas.