JDR/J-Star/KTM's Tye Simmonds was a top 10 contender in tough conditions at Millville on Sunday. Image: Hoppenworld.com.

JDR/J-Star/KTM’s Tye Simmonds continues to gain momentum in his rookie season of Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross competition, tying his best ever finish with 12th overall at Spring Creek last Sunday.

Simmonds raced to a career-best ninth place finish in moto one at Millville, before backing that up with a 12th place finish in the second moto later that afternoon.

Season 2011 hasn’t been an easy one for Simmonds, but the experience he’s gained has proven vital as he begins to piece the puzzle together with his Australian-owned team.

With his improved results has come confidence, and Simmonds says he’s excited to keep striving for improved results as the season progresses.

“I am very excited with my results. I have been battling with pneumonia this season and this is the first race where I have felt really good and it showed in the improvement in my results,” the 19-year-old Australian said. “It feels good to be back in racing shape.”

Despite missing numerous rounds this season through illness, Simmonds now sits 16th in the championship standings after seven of 12 rounds.

Simmonds’ Lites teammate PJ Larsen made his return to racing at Millville after sitting out the last seven weeks healing from a wrist injury, however he was ruled out with a mechanical problem.