LARS Gunnestad is looking to roll back the years and pull off a major shock in the Norwegian Grand Prix on Saturday.

The 31-year-old Pirates asset is giving British speedway a miss this season after having his testimonial with the club in 2001.

But all Poole fans' eyes will still be on Gunnestad tomorrow night when he lines up at Hamar in the opening round of this year's World Champion-ship Grand Prix series.

And Gunnestad hopes to make the most of riding in his own country on such a rare occasion by putting on a special display for his home followers.

The nifty Norwegian said: "There are only five permanent tracks in Norway and this is the first time a GP has been staged their, so it is a big meeting for our country to be hosting.

"I can remember riding in the Nordic Final at Elgane a few years ago, but apart from that my appearances in my homeland are very rare.

"In fact, I think you have to go back to 1991 when I won the Champion of Champions meeting at Elgane against riders from all the top countries that I have won a big meeting there."

Gunnestad, called up as a wildcard, is impressed with the indoor stadium at Hamar, which is about 90 minutes by car from Oslo.

He also feels that anything could happen as he lines up in heat two off gate four against Niklas Klingberg, Carl Stone-hewer and Matej Ferjan.

His 2002 form augers well for Gunnestad, who will be making his fourth GP wild card appearance.

He said: "I have done five meetings this season so far, all in a short space of time. I have been going quite good and I have had the time to get my bikes sorted because I haven't been doing too much travelling.

"I feel good, have no problems and I'm fully fit.

"I'm just going to Hamar to try and do my best. That's all I can do. I have nothing to lose and everything to gain."