Simmonds rode KTM's new 350 SX-F to third overall in Canberra.

JDR Motorex KTM young gun Tye Simmonds gave the Austrian manufacturer its maiden podium with its brand new 350 SX-F at Canberra’s second round of the 2010 Rockstar Energy MX Nationals, finishing third overall in the Pro Open class, and now he is confident he can claim more in the upcoming rounds.

The rookie wonder rode to 2-4-4-2 results in the tough four moto Sprint format, finishing up the weekend behind Todd Waters and defending champion Jay Marmont to move up to third in the series point standings after two rounds.

Simmonds and Waters had an epic battle in the final moto of the day, Simmonds leading much of the moto before Waters made his move with just three corners left to run on the final lap.

“I didn’t holeshot in my final moto, but snuck around the inside , and passed Jay Marmont and Andrew McFarlane who had strong starts,” Simmonds explained. “I took the lead of the moto and checked out, but mind game started to play in my head in the final stages, and I lost my focus allowing Todd Waters to run me down with only three corners to go.

“It was still rewarding to finish in for the final moto, and overall I took third for the round. It’s actually my first ever Pro Open podium in motocross, and the first podium for my new KTM 350 SX-F in Australia – I’m hoping for many more to come.”

Simmonds also had a highlight on Sunday in chasing Motocross Grand Prix race winner Billy Mackenzie in moto one, continuing his rapid learning curve behind the Scottish star.

“In my opening moto UK racer Billy Mackenzie holeshot and I was on his tail,” Simmonds explained. “I got a great jumps at the gate and tucked in behind Billy after the first turn to check out with him against the rest of the field. To his credit I couldn’t catch him, but it was good to be at his pace, and so far separated from the rest of the field.”

Simmonds is on the lone 350cc capacity bike in the Open field, battling hard against the 450cc machinery and living up to expectations on the all-new model with linkage – a first for KTM.