MX2 rookie Mitch Evans raced to an impressive podium finish last weekend at Wonthaggi for the opening round of the Motul MX Nationals series, exceeding expectations on debut in not only the class, but also with the Queensland-based Serco Yamaha outfit.

The teenager completed his schooling at the conclusion of 2016, which allowed him to dedicate his time to the sport throughout the off-season make considerable improvements in the process.

He revealed the team and himself put a goal with greater modesty in place for Wonthaggi and to surpass that goal by taking home third overall has left them both significantly satisfied.

“I’m extremely happy to get on the podium at my first round of MX2,” expressed last year’s MXD title-winner Evans. “Myself and the team had a more modest goal in mind, so to go better is awesome and a great start to the championship.

“I worked really hard over the off-season and now that I have the time to dedicate to ride and train I really want to improve and be the best racer I can be. This is the little confidence boost I need and it shows that I’m on the right track.”

Evans tied on points with teammate Jackson Richardson, but was awarded the higher position on count-back. Richardson displayed promising form, leading majority of race one before settling into second, while the second moto saw the Queenslander recover from a first lap crash to salvage seventh.