A change in format for Ranch MX’s double-header stop of the Pirelli MX Nationals this weekend in New South Wales has come as a huge relief for injured athlete Kirk Gibbs.

The KTM Motocross Racing Team rider was forced to prematurely retire at Conondale’s sixth round two weeks ago after suffering a back injury, however the former Australian champion has confirmed he’ll endeavour to line-up during the two-day affair in Raymond Terrace.

This weekend’s round was initially slated to be a regular double-header, although revisions to the schedule will continue to see it hosted over two days, albeit with just one moto on Saturday followed by one 11-lap outing and two back-to-back eight-lap motos on Sunday.

“My back isn’t going too bad,” Gibbs told MotoOnline.com.au. “I got a cortisone shot on Friday and took the weekend off – you need to let it settle for three to four days – then I had a ride on Tuesday and cruised around – it didn’t feel too bad.

“I went out for a decent ride yesterday – I’m reasonably happy and pulled up not too bad today. I’m on my way to the race now. Hopefully it holds up and I can make it through the whole weekend. Saturday’s format is a big relief for me – back-to-back days [of full rounds] would’ve been really tough – it’s still going to be tough.

“It’s going to be a lot more manageable with trying to do the least amount that I can during practice and qualifying, hopefully do the first race and then try and be the best prepared that I can for Sunday. We’ve got four races, but they’re going to be a bit shorter. I definitely think it’s doable, it’s just whether my back can take it.”

With two non-finishes to his name, Gibbs holds down sixth in the championship standings as just three rounds remain.