The Hydrex IGT Honda team has 'every reason to be confident' ahead of this Saturday's 43rd Macau Grand Prix.

For 2009 the team, run by SMR (Shaun Muir Racing), is fielding the formidable line-up of 2008 winner Stuart Easton and former Macau GP winner and TT legend John McGuinness.

“It's really good to be back at Macau, especially running with the #1 plate,” said Easton. “I've had a fantastic year in BSB with the SMR Hydrex team and it's great to be coming here on the bike I've helped develop and ridden all season. I've now had a year working with the team and the support I get is second to none so I'm feeling really good and I'm sure I can deliver the Macau result that the team deserves.”

“SMR is a first class team and I'm really pleased to be riding for them at Macau this year, there's no other team I rather be with,” insisted McGuinness. “The bike is really sorted and is ideal for the conditions at the Guia circuit so I'm confident of being a front runner. The Macau GP is one of my favourite races and I'm really looking forward to the weekend.”

“Having had our best year ever in the British Superbike Series it's great to arrive here in Macau with the team in such a positive frame of mind, especially returning as last year's winners,” said Muir. “The bikes have proved really competitive throughout the season and both our riders are previous Macau winners, John in 2001 and Stuart last year. We've had terrific support from our principal sponsors, Hydrex and Red Torpedo, so there really is every reason to feel confident about the days ahead!”

First qualifying takes place on Thursday with final qualifying on Friday and the race on Saturday.