Townley heading back to America

Local fans will now have to wait at least another year to see New Zealand star Ben Townley racing motocross full-time in Australia, after the former world champion’s decision to instead compete in the 2012 American title as a replacement for the injured Chad Reed.

Carlton Dry Honda Thor Racing Team owner Yarrive Konsky and General Manager of Honda Motorcycles Australia Tony Hinton were approached by Reed to discuss the possibility of Townley’s release from the factory team. With Townley’s career prospects in mind, both parties agreed to support the move.

"The support I have received has been unbelievable, I can’t talk highly enough of the team, the components and the bikes," said Townley. "The Carlton Dry Honda Thor Racing team are ready to win a motocross championship and I know Brad Anderson and Ford Dale have the ability to prove that and I will be behind them 100 per cent.

"Honda, the team and the sponsors, have all had my best interests in mind and I can’t thank them enough.

"I’m really looking forward to the opportunity to return to the US, and thank Chad very much for the chance," Townley added.

Townley will at least contest the opening round of the Australian MX Nationals on April 1 before he begins pre-season testing in the US.

Reed required surgery following horrific injuries sustained in an AMA supercross crash in February.

"After surgery and the initial realisation that I would be sidelined from competition for some time, I needed to consider the team’s ongoing development and if there was a rider that could step in and be competitive in the role," said Reed.

"Ben has had success at the highest level of motocross and is riding at his best at the moment.

"He knows what it takes to win, and work in a close team environment. I believe he can be competitive and can be a contender in the outdoors championship."