Australia’s Hayden Mellross suffered an unfortunate DNF finish in the season opening 2017 Monster Energy AMA Supercross 250SX Western Regional main event.

After running inside the top three during the early stages of the 15-minute race, the 51FIFTY Energy Drink Yamaha rider’s machine suddenly stopped due to an electrical malfunction.

“I put the 51FIFTY Yamaha up front early; was pumped to be inside the top three and felt I had the speed to stay with the lead pack,” said Mellross. “It was a freak issue with the bike when it just died.”

Although frustrated with the situation, the New South Wales native remains positive following a strong showing amongst a stacked field of 250SX contenders.

“It was great to finally be out there racing and see where my speed actually was against that stacked West SX field,” he said. “I felt great all day and the bike was working amazing in qualifying and the heat race.”

Putting the disappointing situation behind him, Mellross is already looking towards round two inside San Diego’s Petco Park on 14 January.

“I was frustrated for few seconds but have already put it behind me,” he added. “I rode solid, my speed was there, and I was up front. Wish San Diego Supercross was tomorrow night.”

Mellross currently sits 20th overall in the 2017 Monster Energy AMA Supercross 250SX Western Regional series scoring just one point at Anaheim 1.