After a long-awaited return to racing for Carlton Dry Honda Thor Racing’s Ben Townley, the New Zealand native admits he will need more time riding and training after a tough Terex Australian Supercross Championships season opener.

Receiving last-minute doctor’s clearance to enter the event, the former American East Coast Supercross Lites Champion entered the series as a question mark for many.

Townley crashed out of the Pro Open class main event and earned himself a DNF for the night, however he maintains a positive attitude and now plans to up his riding and training routine in order to feel better prepared.

“That was a tough day, I feel as if I’m not quite ready yet,” said Townley. I need to be realistic with my goals and need a couple more weeks riding and training to be where I need to be.”

He adds that even though his racing did not go to plan, the feeling of being back behind the gate was a good one.

“It did however feel really good to be back behind the gate, there is no doubt about that,” Townley added.

Townley and teammate Ford Dale, who also suffered a DNF, will look for a reversal of fortunes when the Pro Open class goes to battle in the unique Phillip Island Grand Prix setting for round two.