Image: Supplied.

Delivering a clean ride when it counted, KTM Racing Team’s Nathan Crawford scored a career-first SX2 podium to open his 2022 Australian Supercross Championship (AUSX) campaign in Melbourne.

Like many of his domestic compatriots, Crawford had not raced Supercross for an extended period with the Australian championship being cancelled in recent seasons because of coronavirus.

Marvel Stadium marked Crawford’s first competitive outing on the all-new 2023 KTM 250 SX-F and the number 199 stayed true to the methodical approach he voiced in the pre-season, keeping his nose clean for the most part and finishing a comfortable P3 in the main event behind internationals Max Anstie (Honda Genuine Honda Racing) and Cole Thompson (Serco Yamaha).

“I’ve spent six or seven weeks on the new 2023 model KTM preparing for supercross and I’m feeling very comfortable on it, Crawford said after Melbourne’s main event. “I honestly didn’t know where I’d fit into the SX2 class, so it feels awesome to get my first-ever supercross podium and get that monkey off my back!

“I’m not super-satisfied with how I rode tonight… we can always be better, but I know the areas I need to work on and what I can improve before next weekend.

“The first round is always tough as everyone comes out guns blazing and there’s often a bit of carnage, but I tried to minimise my mistakes, stay out of trouble and pick up some good points on what was a deceptively slippery track. I’m definitely happy to start the season with this result!”

With three rounds remaining in Australian Supercross this year, Crawford will have the chance to edge closer to the top this Saturday when racing resumes in South Australia.