Motorex KTM’s Todd Waters has reflected upon his 2013 Monster Energy MX Nationals MX1 title tilt and says he is ultimately proud of his efforts despite coming up a place short of his goal.

The 2012 runner-up blasted out of the gates at the start of the season, and looked a sure-fire favourite to take the title as he strung together three consecutive round wins.

But injury would halt Waters’ charge, with a broken collarbone the most significant setback, followed by some more minor niggles that left him to surrender his points lead to eventual champion, Motul Pirelli Suzuki’s Matt Moss.

Waters continued to regain strength in the closing stages of the hard-fought championship, highlighted by yesterday’s round win at Coolum, but couldn’t make up the ground to stop arch-rival Moss, who ended the season with a 16-point buffer.

“It was a good way to end up, I’m a little disappointed not to get the championship but after two major injuries I still finished strong and I’m pretty proud of that,” said Waters.

“It feels so good to be up there getting wins again. I’m getting back up there and it’s a shame the season isn’t two rounds longer.”

He heaped praise upon the tight-knit Motorex KTM outfit, who he credits for much of his success this season.

“Thanks so much to my mechanic Ryan [Deckert], and to Jeff [Leisk] who was here today – these guys are a massive part of why I’m standing on the top step today and second overall in the championship,” said Waters.

“I have a different story to others. When I was growing up, the guys behind Jay and Ryan Marmont were Jeff Leisk, Robbie T [Twyerould], and Danny Apro and the team and it was one of my dreams to ride for them and now I’ve done that.”

Waters’ focus now switches to a new and exciting challenge. He departs Australia today to meet with the team he will race for in the 2014 FIM World Motocross Championship, Red Bull ICEONE Husqvarna Factory Racing.

It’s a huge coup for the talented and determined racer, and an opportunity he attributes in part to Twyerould’s vision and direction.

“I want to be a world champion, and Rob said to me at the start that when our time was over he wanted to wave me goodbye on a plane,” said Waters.

“Almost everything’s gone to plan, we’ve got the ride overseas and there’s one person in particular to thank for that, so thank you Rob.”