Image: Alex Gobert.

Sole MX2 KTM Factory Motocross Racing Team rider, Caleb Ward, is making the most of his factory equipment in 2016, kicking off his Motul MX Nationals campaign with a hard-fought overall victory in Horsham.

The young Queenslander, who made the step from a previous KTM-supported program to the factory outfit for the first time this year, rocketed to the win in the opening MX2 moto of the season before backing it up with fifth in moto two.

“The first moto went to plan,” Ward told MotoOnline.com.au. “I had a good start, made my way into the lead and rode it through, basically I was out there on a Sunday trail ride and just controlled the race.

“Second moto was the complete opposite, I got a horrible start and came from the back of the pack through to fifth. I was kind of surprised I got the overall as we were so close on points, I had no idea I had won up until just before the podium.”

As part of the KTM factory outfit for 2016, Ward now has access to a range of parts and working alongside his team of experienced technicians he has been able to vastly improve his machine.

“My bike’s awesome this year,” Ward said. “I’ve just got access to parts and things that I didn’t have last year. We can go out and actually do testing which all makes a big difference.

“I can’t complain at all, there’s nothing I can pick wrong with it, it’s pretty much perfect I’m really happy with it. I can’t thank the team enough, all of the guys have put in a massive effort and it’s just been really good.”

Ward will head into Appin’s second round of the 2016 Motul MX Nationals championship with a one-point lead over second place contender Nathan Crawford.