Honda Racer on the mend

American Honda announced on April 13th, that Honda Red Bull Racing star Ben Townley had successfully undergone surgery in Europe to look after a continuing problem with the rider’s right shoulder.

Honda Red Bull Racing team manager Erik Kehoe said in a statement, “Ben elected to have the necessary surgery, which also confirms his decision not to race the outdoor nationals due to the difficulties he was experiencing with his shoulder. We support him in his decision and hope to see him back to full health and racing as soon as possible.”

The Honda racer headed to Belgium for the operation, which was performed by Dr. Toon Claes. Townley, the former MX2 World and SX East Coast Lites champion, commented on his status and immediate plans.

“It’s been an unfortunate two years in my career, but the Honda Red Bull Racing team and all my sponsors have stuck by me. My shoulder was at the point where I could not commit to racing 100 per cent and with further tests and medical opinions we were able to pinpoint the problem. Red Bull will be lending all their support through their athlete performance team and will help me focus on my rehab and getting back to full health. The next step after that will, of course, be getting back on the race track.”

It is believed that Townley will stay in Belgium for about three more weeks, before heading back to America, where he will then begin his shoulder rehabilitation program.