The opening round of the season took us to Abu Dhabi where the $1.2billion Yas Marina circuit - which can only be described as the most unbelievable track in the world - has blown us all away.

The opulence is amazing and the track itself really does have some spectacular corners, straights and scenery.

The #3 Centaur Commodore looks sharp out on the track, I'm really happy with the livery, and after a few changes here and there, we found a bit more speed, but not enough to match Jamie Whincup. Boy, was he quick this time out.

I must admit that it's good to be back in the seat again. I just love driving these fantastic cars.

The team has worked hard during the summer break to make sure we had everything ready to go, and with a whirlwind start to the season that includes two rounds back-to-back in the Middle East, any team not ready will get caught short.

Training has been a big thing for me in recent weeks, just to make sure the body was ready for racing again. Most weeks have been spent with heavy sessions on swimming, running and cycling.

There's a group of five of us training together - Garth Tander, Andrew Thompson, Will Davison, Fabian Coulthard and myself. It's just as competitive off the track as it is on it!

The heat over here in the Middle East will also be a factor. Tactics and strategy during the races plays a huge part in the final results.

Keep an eye on the Centaur Racer, hopefully we return home with some good points from the first two rounds.

I look forward to catching up with you out at the track and of course writing a column here in the Journal to get you as close as possible to the V8 Supercar action.

For the latest news on our team, go to www.centaurracing.com.au