Image: Jeremy Hammer (Foremost Media).

MX1 rookie Nathan Crawford is aiming for a podium finish this weekend at Coolum’s 10th and final round of the 2017 Motul MX Nationals in Queensland.

Crawford, who has recorded a number of top five finishes in his first year in the premier class, expressed his liking for the sandy Coolum circuit, and believes two strong starts could lead him to a desired top three placing.

“The game plan for me this weekend will to get two good starts, because I know I ride Coolum quite well,” Crawford explained. “If I can rip two good starts, I believe I can be on the podium, so that’s my main focus along with two solid motos.

“It’s going to be a good weekend, Coolum’s always a good event and it always creates a good vibe for the last round of the MX Nationals. I’ll have a lot of friends and family up there too, so I’m looking forward to it.”

The Mega Fuels Monster Energy Kawasaki rider has been knocking on the door of a podium in the second half of the series, however has fallen just short of the elusive position on each occasion.

Despite missing a round, Crawford currently sits ninth in the championship standings, 17 points behind his teammate Brett Metcalfe.