Tune Tech Racing KTM’s Kale Makeham is celebrating a triumphant maiden Monster Energy MX Nationals season in MX2, cementing the runner-up position overall at Coolum on Sunday.

Makeham clinched second in the championship behind Luke Styke after claiming third overall at Coolum, capping off an incredible effort in his rookie season that included eight overall podiums.

With that result, Makeham was awarded the Jono Porter Cup to signify his position as top privateer in the 2013 title chase.

The season also saw Makeham put the 250 two-stroke back in the winner’s circle at Appin’s sixth round, victorious in moto one in a historic performance.

“I had a bit of pressure coming in – I really wanted second overall in the championship,” Makeham said. “That was my main goal, but obviously I haven’t won a round yet so I really wanted to do that too.

“It’s cool to come out and finish on the podium again, that’s eight out of 10 for the season, and we were runner-up in our rookie season. I think there’s only bigger things to come from here, it’s been a really positive season.

“Today the track was perfect, day was perfect and I had heaps of support with my whole team here with me.”

After winning the Under 19s title last season, the 20-year-old has his sights set on a successful first Supercross campaign in Pro Lites when Darwin hosts the season-opener in a fortnight.

“I’m really looking forward to next year and even Supercrcross now, because I feel like it’s my forte and what I’ve been looking forward to the most,” he added.

Darwin’s first Supercross round will take place at Hidden Valley Raceway on 14-15 September.