Carlos Checa's spectacular performance throughout the 2010 season earned him a sort of investiture as Ducati's ‘official' rider for this season and the Spaniard is now gearing up to tackle one of the most important moments of his long career.

The Althea Racing man has been given a chance to spearhead the Ducati attack in this year's championship, but he also knows that it will be more difficult this year to remain at the top starting at the opening round of the championship at Phillip Island on February 27.

"The team is working really well," declared Checa. "Personally I feel very confident that I'll be able to fight for the title, even though I'll have some stiff competition, starting with Biaggi."

A keen extreme sports enthusiast, Carlos spent the Xmas break relaxing with his family but over New Year he went into the mountains to do some skiing and cross country enduro riding, as well as some mountain climbing.

Checa aims to start this year in the same way as he did last season, quick off the mark at the Phillip Island opening round, but his main New Year's resolutions remain "to be a better person and a better rider!"