Mr. Daytona, HMC Ducati rider Scott Russell, returns to the AMA Championship aboard a Ducati after two disappointing seasons with Harley-Davidson. The former AMA and WSC champ feels the 2001 season will earn him redemption in the eyes of his fans and prove wrong those that believe he's washed up.

Although he has yet to turn a lap on the Ducati, Scott seems enthused about racing the Italian bike. "I'm excited. I'm ready," Russell told AMASoup this morning during the light rain at Daytona. "Unfortunately, Mother Nature's not going to let it happen right now. After what I've been on the past two years, I'm ready to go. The Ducati just looks fast sitting there.""

Russell's HMC Ducati is sporting his long-time competition number of four. "We'll drop three digits off that at the end of the year," he predicts.

While this is HMC Ducati's first test with their new Superbikes, Russell likes the diverse personalities that make up his crew. "I think we're in good shape. We've got Carl Fogarty's ex-mechanic (Slick Bass) and some good people they've put together. I don't see any problems winning this thing, really."

What does Russell think of HMC's owner, Mitch Hansen? "He's keen. He is the first team manager or team owner that I've seen in a while that says 'Whatever we need, we'll get'. That's all you need really, and that's all you can ask for."

"The bikes have proven themselves, so I am laid back and ready to go."

Russell sees this season as an extra chance to write his name in the record books. The first opportunity to do so will come in March when he has a chance to add to his five Daytona wins. "I was expecting to be done at the end of last year, so this year is just a bonus for me, icing on the cake. If I can pull number six out of here ...I don't think anyone will be able to top that record. That's what I am shooting for."