FORMER Trelawny skipper Chris Harris made a spectacular start to 2004 when he won the New Year Classic at Newport on Sunday.

He won the final after a keenly contested battle with reigning champion David Howe of Wolverhampton, who fell on the last bend.

Leigh Lanham of Arena Essex was runner-up with American star Brent Werner of Rye House in third place. Harris, who will be riding for Elite League Coventry this season, said: 'I made it harder for myself by having to come from behind but I'm pleased with how it's gone and to win the meeting is great.'