On 21 January 2017, some of the world’s best flat track racers will converge on Taree Motorcycle Club for the fifth annual running of the Motul Pirelli Troy Bayliss Classic presented by Shannon’s Insurance.

AMA flat track superstar Jared Mees has confirmed he will return to Australia to defend his 2015 crown, a title that remains in place due to inclement weather thwarting the running of the final race of the 2016 event.

The four-time AMA Grand National Champion, who recently won an X-Games flat track gold medal, will be making his third appearance at the iconic event. Mees said he is keen to defend his title and become the first dual winner of the coveted crown.

“I am really looking forward to making the trip to Australia again for the 2017 Troy Bayliss Classic,” Mees said.

“The very first time I came to the event I knew I would always look forward to coming back.

“I can’t thank Brisbane Honda enough for the bikes and support and everyone at the Troy Bayliss Classic for inviting me back again,” Mees continued.

Event Organiser Troy Bayliss said an incredible amount of planning and development has gone into ensuring an even greater experience for spectators at the 2017 event.

“I am looking forward to our fifth Troy Bayliss Classic at Taree Motorcycle Club,” Bayliss said. “This event continues to evolve, and I am excited with what we have planned for 2017.

“We have extended grandstand seating and included shade cover to ensure an event better experience for spectators. This option is perfect for people wanting to arrive a little later and not worry about bringing pop-up tents. Grandstand tickets are limited and will be available to purchase online from Friday 11 November.

“While personally, I would love to take another win I do think with the likes of Jared (Mees) and the rest of the All-Star line-up my best days are behind me. In saying that, I will definitely give it a nudge and if I am on a good day; who knows what could happen.

“The most important aspect for me is ensuring everyone who comes to the event enjoys themselves,” Bayliss added.

In addition to the All Star’s and Legends class, the event will include a strong line-up of support categories, featuring some of Australia’s best youth and amateur racers.

The top seven competitors from the 65cc, 85cc and 250cc (13-16yrs) classes at the 2016 Australian Junior Dirt Track titles all received invitations to enter for the 2017 event.

The Akubra Classic to be held at Kempsey’s Greenhill Speedway on Saturday 19th November will also be a qualifier for the 2017 Motul Pirelli Troy Bayliss Classic, with the top eight finishes from the 450 final, eligible for an approved entry.

“We have refined the support classes for the 2017 Troy Bayliss Classic,” Bayliss continued. “This new qualifying process will ensure we are attracting the best young and amateur racers from around Australia.”

Tickets to the 2017 Motul Pirelli Troy Bayliss Classic presented by Shannon’s Insurance will go on sale at 9.00am on Friday 11 November via troybaylissclassic.com.