IN what was by far his strongest performance of the year, Yamaha Junior Development Team (NSW YJDT) rider Luke Styke, finished in a sensational second place behind Tye Simmonds in the fourth round of the under 19s Motocross Nationals last Sunday at Lake Macqaurie.

The 16-year-old, from Falls Creek, finished only three points off round winner Simmonds after a victory and a third place from the two 20 minute plus one-lap motos, and throughout the round Styke certainly shone brightly.

It was his victory during the opening moto when Styke took the lead late in the race after battling with Simmonds and Lawson Bopping that really made people stand up and take notice.

Coming off the high of the opening moto victory, Styke was unable to back up with another victory during the second moto but still managed to finish in third place, which gave him second place overall for the round.

It was Styke’s second podium finish in the under 19s Motocross Nationals competition this year.

NSW YJDT manager, Nik Sullivan, was naturally thrilled with the performance of Styke.

“Luke certainly stepped it up another level over the weekend and his results won him plenty more admirers,” Sullivan said.

“Winning the opening moto was a fantastic result and he managed to do it in front of many of the Yamaha Australia representatives so that was great too.

“Finishing in second place overall and winning the opening moto proves that Luke has the speed and a round victory shouldn’t be too far away I’m sure.”

Styke’s performance has now consolidated his place inside the top 10 for the overall points standings for the Under 19s Motocross Nationals.

In some unfortunate news for the NSW YJDT, the youngest member Jordan Bissaker will be sidelined for the next two months due to glandular fever.

Round five of the under 19s Motocross Nationals is Newry in Victoria this Sunday.

The next appearance for the NSW YJDT is the second round of the NSW Motocross Championship on July 26 – 27 at Hasting Valley in Port Macquarie.