Image: Foremost Media.

Former Australian champion Kirk Gibbs has expressed satisfaction in the recovery of his shoulder injury sustained last month at Murray Bridge, making a return to racing at the Manjimup 15,000 on Sunday with runner-up honours.

The CDR Yamaha Monster Energy rider damaged his right shoulder during South Australia’s double-header round of the Pirelli MX Nationals in May, forcing him out of title contention after he sat out round five of the series.

With three Manjimup 15,000 victories already under his belt, Gibbs endeavoured to make it a record four wins, however his campaign was upset by youthful talent Regan Duffy (Raceline KTM Thor), completing the day with a 5-1-1 results sheet for second overall.

“It was another good day here at Manjimup and I always love coming here as it’s a great place to race,” Gibbs commented. “The first race with fifth was the downfall for me as overcoming that points gap in a three-race format is tough when the other riders were pretty consistent.

“Still, it was pleasing to be able to race at a good level so quickly after my shoulder injury and it still feels good at the end of the day on a demanding track.

“A huge thanks to the CDR Yamaha Monster Energy team for making this happen as it’s never easy to race on the other side of the country and also to the Manjimup club and event organisers as this event is always a highlight for me and I love racing here in front of such an enthusiastic crowd.”

Gibbs will return to the MX Nationals when the series resumes racing from a lengthy break, scheduled to take place on 23 June at Gympie in Queensland.