Smith Brothers Racing press release:

The Queen’s birthday long weekend will see over 400 motorcycle and 140 car competitors line up for the 41st edition of one of the country’s most mentally and physically challenging motor sport events.

The race covers a gruelling 480km over two days, running from Alice Springs to the small community of Finke and back again.

After returning from a successful week of testing and pre running, both Honda riders are primed for a strong assault on this year’s race.

The 2013 “King of the desert” Todd Smith missed last year’s race due a neck injury but says he is as keen as ever to get back out on the track and try to claim his second win.

“Preparations for this year’s race are going really well, we had a successful week of testing with Terry Hay from Shock Treatment and we’re excited about our race package. I have recovered well after my broken neck and I’m feeling very comfortable at this stage. Obviously, I’m out there to win but we’ll just try to put down a quick time and see where we end up.”

Fourth outright wasn’t what Jacob Smith was hoping for last year in 2015 but a solid start to the season for Smith Brothers Racing and a successful week of testing, see’s Jacob looking to improve on last year’s result.

“I’m looking forward to getting the race under way, we had a positive week of testing last week and I’m really happy with our setup this year. My shoulder injury is all good and I’m just excited to get things underway. I’m definitely looking to improve on last year’s result and at least get my Honda back on the podium.”

Proceedings get underway with scrutineering Friday the 10th of June, followed by a prologue on Saturday.

Sunday will see all riders hit the track for an ever surprising race day one and Monday will see them return to cross the finish line. With an expected 20,000 strong crowd lining the track it’s shaping up to be another epic running of the Finke Desert Race.