Stadium track ready to roar

Contractors were working overnight in final prep-arations for today's Super X at Waikato Stadium.

Things fell behind schedule yesterday as a cold wind blew through the stadium and rain threatened. That was until the riders came out, and suddenly so did the sun.

It put a smile on the face of Australasian Supercross Championship general manager Mal Peter. "It's always a challenge when there's a new town and new contractors but the council have been very accommodating," Mr Peter said.

Hamilton rider Jesse Wiki also looked happy as he roared through the dirt for a couple of practice laps.

"It's surreal having a world-class event in New Zealand. And having it in a rugby stadium is awesome – we're use to smaller locations," he said.

Mr Peter said the plan was to have two races a year in New Zealand, one on each island.

"In fact, Hamilton could be the second biggest crowd in the series," he said, behind Brisbane where it attracts 25,000 spectators.

According to Mr Peter 10,000 tickets had been sold and he was expecting a crowd of 12,000-14,000. Gates open at 4pm today with racing due to start at 6.30pm. Tickets cost $49 for adults and $29 for children with tickets available at the gate.   See More of Super X, C14

- © Fairfax NZ News