Honda’s Canard Still Faces Long Recovery Period; Noren to Fill-In

While Team Honda HRC’s Trey Canard heals from a broken arm, Sweden’s Freddie Noren will once again sub with the factory team.

What was hoped to be a speedy return to action for Team Honda HRC’s Trey Canard has turned into another lengthy recovery period that will keep the likeable Oklahoman off his factory CRF450R at the FMF Glen Helen National and may stall his return until the middle of the season.

Canard’s doctor told him at a recent appointment that broken left arm from a crash at the Detroit Supercross in March is not ready for the jarring that a return to full active duty would involve. Canard had a carbon-fiber plate applied to the broken bone during an operation on March 24, but the bone has not yet healed enough to risk a return. Canard will is expected to be reexamined in two weeks.

“I’m definitely bummed I’m not on the gate yet, but right now I’m staying focused on what’s ahead and looking to make the most of every moment until I can ride again,” Canard said. “I’ve been doing what training I can to stay physically fit for when it’s possible to start riding. I can’t thank everyone enough for being patient with my healing process, and I want everyone to know I’m doing my best to be back out there. I’m excited to get back to riding when the time comes.”

In Canard’s absence, Team Honda HRC has drafted MotoSport.com/GPI Honda rider Fredrik Noren of Sweden to fill-in aboard Canard’s factory Honda, beginning with the third round of the 2015 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship at Lakewood, Colordado. Noren, who has subbed for injured Team Honda riders during the latter part of the 2014 season, will pit under the Team Honda HRC tent at least through the June 13 High Point National in Mt. Morris, Pennsylvania. Noren also serves as the official test rider for Team Honda HRC.

“The relationship I have with Honda is awesome,” Noren said. “Everyone on the racing team is great, and I’m very thankful for the opportunities they’ve given me. I’m happy to get another chance to fill in on the team, but I’m also bummed because it means Trey is hurt; I’d rather have him out there racing, too. I’m looking forward to giving my best effort and to working together with the team to keep improving.”

Team Honda HRC Motocross Manager Dan Betley said that while it is very unfortunate that Canard will not be returning as quickly as the team had anticipated, it is good to have a solid fill-in rider such as Noren available.

“We’re staying hopeful that Trey will be released to ride following his next doctor appointment, but nothing is definite at this point and we’re going to be playing it week by week,” Betley said. “Until that happens, Freddie will be under our awning. He’s comfortable on the bike and we’re looking to help him progress.”