Jason McKay - file

ARMED with a new invitee, Dwayne Vascianne of Future Leaders Karate, Jamaica's combined martial arts team captain, Jason McKay, yesterday said they intend to start their 2008-2009 season with a bang against Cuba in Havana on December 14.

"We're going to make it a full hand," said an injured McKay, who is himself doubtful for the trip after leading Jamaica to four consecutive victories against their Caribbean neighbours since January 2004.

"Although Cuba is never to be underestimated, I honestly think the squad is at a level at which they won't have a chance," he added, saying the combined team has progressed beyond the skills of the former Caribbean leaders in martial arts, successfully defending its World Continental Team Fighting championship in Orlando against the likes of New Zealand, England and the United States last year.

However, Cuba surprised Jamaica last year after the combined team went in expecting a walkover but had to fight to the last match to achieve victory.

"We didn't underestimate them then and we won't now," said McKay. "The reality is we know it will be a fight, but we're just better," he insisted

First victory

The combined team scored its first-ever victory over Cuba in 2001 with McKay as captain. However, in 2002, the Cubans rallied, not only defeating Jamaica, but sent the captain home with a broken jaw.

The combined team regrouped, and, under McKay's captaincy, returned in 2004 to start a four-year domination of Cuba, winning every showdown, including last year's heated battle.

The 2004 battle was a tough encounter, which featured numerous disqualifications and protests. However, since then, Jamaica have emerged on top.

McKay's fitness and participation are still in question for the December 14 showdown as he is yet to be cleared by physiotherapists after suffering a torn muscle at the New York international in September.

The injury caused McKay to miss the recent Tae Kwon Do World Cup in Italy. He has since failed two fitness tests, leaving his participation in Cuba doubtful.