EAGLE RIVER, WI-- The biggest stars in ice oval snowmobile racing are here in Eagle River to win a world championship. One year ago Canada's Brian Bewcyk beat the odds and the field to win the title. He's fastest in time trials this year.

"I was very nervous going out on the track, fresh ice and everything," Bewcyk said. "But the sled worked really good, better than I thought it would. It really went fast because it was cold today."

Bewcyk comes to Eagle River as defending champion and set fast time in Thursday morning time trials. But there are plenty of challengers gunning for the crown.

Including 3-time world champion PJ Wanderscheid. "More confident than I have for the past few years because we know the sled's working. We're not trying to test here. We have a lof of things in line we haven't had in the past. We'll be in good shape."

"Try to get the same level as P.J, Dave Wahl and Jacques Villeneuve," said 2-time champion Gary Moyle, "with the three time deal. We'd like to make it four. In order to get there we need three first. That's kinda the fire I have."

"There's a lot of guys I was watching may not have their stuff figured out yet," said Wausau's Dan Fenhaus, who was the 2nd fastest time on the day, "but come Sunday they'll have their stuff ready to go. I think my chances are as good as anyone right now."

Added 2007 runner-up Dustin Wahl: "We're one of the fastest guys here normally. It looks to be the same this year. Throughout the year we've always been right up there."

The action continues in Eagle River Friday night.