Starts were the key for Tye Simmonds' top 10 result in Las Vegas.

JDR/J-Star/KTM rider Tye Simmonds says starts were the key to his superb top 10 finish in Las Vegas’ final round of the 2011 Monster Energy AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship.

The 19-year-old Australian finished 10th in the final race of his rookie season, a solid result after transferring directly through to the main event with sixth in his heat race.

earned his career best finish at the final round of the AMA Supercross Series held at Sam Boyd Stadium in Las Vegas, NV when he crossed the checkered flag in 10th overall.

In the main event, Simmonds earned another great start almost nailing the holeshot.

“I got a great jump and nearly pulled the holeshot but I went a little too wide at the end and ended up about 4th through the first corner,” Simmonds explained.

Simmonds fell back to about eighth at the end of the first lap and then slipped to 11th on the second lap. He rode a strong and consistent race and stayed around the top ten throughout the entire 20-lap main.

“I wasn’t sure how many laps were left so I just kept pushing as hard as I could,” he added. “I didn’t even know I was in 10th at the end of the race, I was so happy to find out when I crossed the finish line.”

Simmonds went on to finish 10th overall and put in his season best finish at the final round of the series.

“Starts were the key to my results today. I was able to get great starts in my heat and the main and that helped me finish up where I belong,” remarked Simmonds.

The JDR/J-Star/KTM Team will spend the next two weeks preparing for the AMA Pro Motocross series, which will begin on 21 May at Hangtown Raceway.