Image: Simon Cudby.

Lawson Bopping will be absent from Broadford’s opening round of the Monster Energy MX Nationals later this month, unable to secure a ride as he continues his recovery from Glandular Fever.

The talented 24-year-old was replaced at CDR Yamaha during the off-season by returning four-time national champion Jay Marmont, following a frustrating season in 2013 where Bopping was severely plagued by the fever.

After a number of positive showings in the opening rounds of the Monster Energy Supercross series in the US, Bopping has conceded that he’s still not 100 percent fit, enforcing another extended break from frequent riding and training.

Bopping has ruled himself out of the Broadford opener on 30 March and is yet to commit to a privateer program, but has plans to ride an RM-Z450 in select rounds if budget can be sought. He also has plans of keeping ‘match-fit’ in case a replacement role becomes available mid-season.

“I’d love to race, it’s not that i don’t want to, I just have to get healthy first,” Bopping said. “It will be down to what I can afford really, but ideally if something comes up on a team during the season, that would be an option.

“If I’m not healthy enough to go race, I don’t want to spoil any chances. We’ll see how we go. I haven’t ridden much since America when I got back three weeks ago, I’m just trying to rest up and monitor my health. I’m definitely getting better, but it just takes time.”

Last year despite ongoing health complications Bopping placed ninth in the MX Nationals and 11th in the supercross standings.