Hawk Kawasaki's Scott Smart will leave Oulton Park and jump straight on a plane with the Phase One Endurance team and fly to Suzuka for his debut in the prestigious Eight-Hours endurance race.
Smart, who raced at the track while competing in 500GP on a frankly dreadful privateer Honda,hasn't done the Eight-Hours before and is looking forward to the challenge - but also has both feet on the ground when it comes to the chances of the team winning.
"It's a great opportunity as I never raced the 8 Eight-Hours before and I have always wanted to. I'm excited by the prospect, especially with Phase One as they are a great team but a fantastic track record.
"I am not expecting to win because all of the Japanese Superbike teams are running in the same class this year. Last year they were in a different class but it will be great fun going out there and mixing it with the local teams.
Tyres also play a massive role. We are on Dunlops. Bridgestone are dominant at this track with Michelin next in line but we will get out there and put on a good show," he said.