New Zealander Ben Townley will miss this weekend’s opening round of the 2011 FIM Motocross Championship, but is actively working for his comeback after his winter injuries.

Townley was on track to make his European comeback for CLS Monster Energy Kawasaki Pro Circuit this season, however he’ll miss the season opener after a string of off-season injuries.

“My first plan was to come later, but after a discussion with the team I jumped in a plane and came earlier to meet the people in Hawkstone,” Townley explained. “I was nervous as I didn’t know any member of the team except Harry [Nolte].

“I spent a few days in England, then went to the team in Belgium and finally in Marseille. Now I’m back in Belgium to train, and yesterday was my first day on the bike.”

Townley said he’s uncertain when he’ll make a racing return.

“It’s difficult to say when I will be back racing – it can be in two weeks, four weeks or more,” he said. “My goal was to be there to win the title, now of course it’s over and I will be back when I will feel comfortable.

“In the past I came back to early after an injury, I will not do the same mistake; I know that my speed will not be a problem, but I need some foundation before coming back. For sure I want to win some races before the end of the season.”

The Motocross Grand Prix season will commence this weekend in Bulgaria.