Image: Chris Ritchie Foto.

Australian MX2 rookie Jay Wilson is gaining early headway in preparation for next month’s Monster Energy MX Nationals opener, finishing third overall at the Tokoroa round of the New Zealand Motocross Championship on Sunday.

Wilson, 19, will step up to the MX2 ranks full time in 2014 with Serco Yamaha alongside fellow young gun Luke Clout, currently homing his skills in NZ with Josh Coppins’ Altherm JCR Yamaha outfit.

As top four-stroke finisher aboard the YZ250F, Wilson takes confidence from the Tokoroa round of the series last weekend, but vows to come out stronger for round three if he’s to challenge for the title.

“It was a challenging day,” Wilson reflected. “It took me a bit to get used to the track. This is only my second race back, so I’m going to practice on my racecraft and be ready next time out.”

Coppins noted Wilson’s strong performance aboard the brand new 2014 YZ250F, consistency being a major asset in his championship aspirations.

“Jay did good and sits well in the championship because of it, particularly after another consistent podium today,” Coppins said. “He’s also the first four-stroke in the class against the 250 two-strokes, which says a lot for Yamaha’s YZ250F.”

The NZ series will continue on 9 March at Pukekohe, with Wilson fourth in the standings and well in podium contention.