Round three at Broadford a time warp for Brett Metcalfe
SD3 Husqvarna’s Brett Metcalfe will make a nostalgic return to the State Motorcycle Complex in Broadford this weekend, when round three of the Motul MX Nationals kicks off this Sunday May 1, 2016.
The former AMA Motocross and Supercross racer last hit the track at Broadford as a junior in the year 2000 at the MXGP, where he successfully launched his international racing career, and not long after bid farewell to Australia.
Metcalfe, who has now returned to his home country to contest the first four rounds of the Motul MX Nationals, shared his thoughts on returning to a venue which holds such historical significance for his career.
“Broadford definitely holds significance with me. I remember riding the junior class when I was 15 at the World 500 GP they had there. I actually met a couple of people from KTM USA and they got to see me ride, and see who I was, and that really launched things for me,” he said.
“When I raced there last, Broadford was on par with some of the European tracks. I’m sure it will be the same this weekend but the last time I was riding a 125 two stroke, and the hills felt huge!
“I am really looking forward to round three. I used to love going to Broadford because it’s a pretty natural terrain track, plus Melbourne areas always get a good crowd so that should be cool.”
With more than 15 years in between visits to Broadford, Metcalfe also shared just what it means to be racing in Australia and to be reliving so much history with the Motul MX Nationals.
“The first year I turned professional, my first race event was one of Kevin’s (Williams) Thumpernats, so we have known each other for a very long time and I’ve have had a relationship with Kevin for years.
“To come back now to compete in the outdoor series that he is running, and to have round three at Broadford, is like a bit of a time warp for me really. It’s very cool to see Kevin still going and still pushing the calibre of racing in our country.
“Even though I’m only racing four rounds of the MX Nationals, it’s special. To be able to have Australia backing me and following my career is so cool and something I really appreciate.
“To hear fans come up to me and say that they have followed my career since I left, means a lot to me because I have been gone for so long. To do this with the SD3 Husqvarna Team and Steve McKinnon, it feels like such a family environment. We are having a great time, and we all can’t wait to get to Broadford this weekend.”
The third round of the Motul MX Nationals is set to be held at the State Motorcycle Complex in Broadford this weekend, Sunday May 1, 2016.