Defending champion will have tough start for 2010 Orienteering series.

Although tagged as the underdog Darren Ashmore, 2009 SILVA Superseries orienteering champion, is keenly anticipating the first round of the 2010 series races.

After an outstanding return to form in 2009, winning his seventh National title and a place in the World Games team, Ashmore should have been hot favourite for this years Superseries.

"I've been training really well and have got myself sharp and focused" he said from his Rotorua home.

But the return to New Zealand of World Games team-mate Ross Morrison, from his Danish training base, means the favourite tag rests firmly on the shoulders of the 25 year old sprint star.

Morrison has improved steadily in his first five years as an elite, culminating in a 10th place at the 2009 World Games Sprint, and wins in two major European races - the JK Sprint and the Danish Park Sprint series.

Throw in a home advantage for Hawkes Bay raised Morrison for the first round of SILVA Superseries races at "Sprint the Bay" and Ashmore title is sure to be under pressure.

"The only way the first round could be any tougher would be if Chris Forne popped back from his Norwegian base." Ashmore quipped. "And with a large group this year of superfit and focused National Squad members, its sure to be the most competitive series ever. I don't mind being the underdog - it should be good."

Those Squad members looking to impress include former National Sprint Champion and Junior Worlds representative Tom Reynolds, National Long distance champion and former World Champion (Relay) Carsten Joergensen and former World Adventure Racing Champion Brent Edwards.

The 2010 SILVA Superseries Orienteering commences at the Sprint the Bay weekend in Havelock on Friday January 22, with two scoring results from the six sprint races around Hawkes Bay.

Live results will be posted to www.twitter.com/NZOSuperseries
More information at www.maptalk.co.nz/superseries/

Sprint The Bay timetable
Friday 22nd of January
Stage 1- Havelock North Village
Saturday 23rd of January
Stage 2- Arataki
Stage 3- Tainui Kerunga
Stage 4- Frimley Park
Sunday 24th of January
Stage 5- E.I.T
Stage 6- Napier Boys High School