Image: John Pearson.

Former motocross pro turned stuntman Cody Mackie will headline this weekend’s opening round of the 125cc Gold Cup at Conondale’s third round of the 2017 Motul MX Nationals.

Mackie will come out of retirement for a rare return to racing in the support category, which will most certainly be a crowd-pleaser packed with small-bore two-stroke goodness.

“Initially what motivated me to race the 125 class was just that I had time in my schedule,” Mackie said. “I don’t race professionally anymore, so I sort of pick and choose my races these days, but this is definitely worth coming out of retirement for.

“I can still get that buzz from racing that I love. The 125 has no where near the power of a 450 so it’s nice and safe and it’s just a lot of fun. I remember when I first went senior, there was 120 of us on 125s. I came off being a good junior and then when I got into that class I ended up getting waxed, so for me racing this class at Conondale is about getting some sort of redemption on the guys who used to beat me.

“I’m planning on doing all three rounds, and there’s definitely a few guys who I’d like to see out there having a crack with me. Guys like Cam Taylor who used to beat me back when I was racing. I’m not a kid anymore, I’ve grown up a bit since then, so hopefully I can give a few of the guys a run for their money. Racing a 125 at Conondale is something that’s really going to be a lot of fun.

“I’ve rallied around to rev a few of my mates up to get out there, but I just hope it’s good racing for the fans and it can add another element to what’s already going to be a fun weekend at the Nationals.”

If you would like the opportunity to line up alongside Cody Mackie in the 125cc Gold Cup Class at Conondale this weekend, entries are still open at www.mxnationals.com.au.