Image: Simon Makker.

Penrite Oil Honda Racing’s Josh Cachia will sit out the opening round of the MX Nationals at Broadford State Motorcycle Sports Complex this weekend.

Cachia has been racing the clock to return to full fitness, following a series of operations to his left wrist. While every effort was made to ensure Cachia return fully fit, his recovery suffered a setback and has not progressed to the desired level.

With the 2014 MX2 title still firmly in their sights, the Penrite Oil Honda Racing team and Cachia, agree it is best to delay his comeback until he is 100 percent ready.

“My plan was always to get this fixed then come back 100 percent fully fit at the start of the season and fight for the MX2 title,” Cachia explained.

“It is frustrating because I want to be out there more than anything but I can’t force this and risk further injury. I want to be able to come straight out and win races. We will assess the situation before round two and see how it is progressing.”

Team Manger Mike Landman said Cachia remained a championship contender and every effort was being made to ensure he return to the series in peak fitness.

“While it is disappointing that Josh will miss the opening round we need to make sure that when he does return, he is fully fit and able to challenge for race wins,” Landman explained.

“It has been a long and difficult injury for Josh and we don’t want him out there risking further damage if he is not 100 percent. Every effort is being made to ensure he will be at the start gates within the next two rounds.”

Teammate Cody Cooper will make his Penrite Oil Honda Racing debut in the MX1 class at the opening round.