New Zealand native, Ben Townley first told Transmoto that he was interested in racing the 2013 KTM Hattah Desert Race at the opening round of last year's Australian Supercross Championships at Dubbo, October 13. It's now been confirmed that the recently-retired BT will be racing the event.

“The preparation for Hattah is going really well," said North West Victorian Motorcycle Club president, Gary Leeson. "With only four weekends left, things are hotting up. Former World Motocross Champion, Ben Townley will be making his way from New Zealand to have a go. It will be great to see Ben Grabham back again too, who missed last year’s event due of injury. 2012 Australian 4-Day Enduro champion Daniel Milner will be there as well." Five-time winner and North West Victorian Motorcycle Club member, Warren Smart is also expected to compete.

Defending three-time Outright champion, Motorex KTM Racing's Toby Price will be forced to miss this year's event due to injuries sustained earlier this year. In second at last year's event was Active8 Yamaha's Josh Green on debut, followed by teammate AJ Roberts.

The prize-money has risen to a cool $5000 for first-place, $3000 for second and $1500 for third for this year’s main event, which will take place on Sunday, July 7. Junior and Senior Prologue events and the KTM Junior Hattah Desert Race all take place on Saturday. The Tenacious Women of Hattah Class will also be a strong feature for this year’s edition, with seven already signed-up in the senior class and eight signed-up in the junior class. There will also be a Girls 7-12 years class and Girls 12-U16 years class. Australian freestyle stunt rider, Dave McKenna, will also put on a show during scrutineering and sign-on in Mildura on Friday night, July 5.

Entries for the 2013 KTM Hattah Desert Race will close on Friday, June 7. Under no circumstances will late entries be accepted. To enter, download the Supplementary Regulations and Entry Form.

To check out the highlights from last year's event, click here.