JERSEYBORN racing driver James Walker is gearing up for his first competitive race with P1 Motorsport as the 2009 World Series by Renault roars into action next weekend at the Circuit de Catalunya in Barcelona.

After running at the front of the pre-season test sessions, Walker will be gunning for a strong start to his campaign and is confident that he and his new team are in with a chance.

And there will be a few changes to look out for on the Formula Renault 3.5 cars this year, as they have less down force as aerodynamic parts have been removed – in much the same way as in Formula One – and Walker will be able to reach higher speeds on the straights.

After the Barcelona race – which begins on Saturday afternoon with race two on Sunday lunchtime – the 17-race season moves to the Spa-Francorchamps track in Belgium, before taking up its traditional slot before the F1 race in Monaco at the end of May.

• Picture: James Walker at the wheel of the P1 Motorsport World Series by Renault car