Image: Octopi Media.

In an impressive debut as a fill-in rider for Rockstar Energy Husqvarna, Joshua Varize managed to notch a career-first top 10 finish in Pro Motocross.

The long-time KTM Orange Brigade rider got the call up to the injury-depleted Factory Husqvarna effort last week as their roster dwindled to just one rider, giving Varize the opportunity to ride the final two rounds of the 2021 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross season.

Entering Fox Raceway for the 11th round of the championship searching for his first overall top 10 since turning pro last season, Varize’s eventual 9-9 moto scores put him eighth overall on the day.

“My first day with the team was amazing, really no complaints here,” Varize explained. “I’m super stoked on how the day went, I finally got into the top-10, which is what I’ve been pushing for.

“My Rockstar Energy Husqvarna machine was ripping today and I’m really stoked to go back this week, get some testing done and be ready for Hangtown.”

In his home race, impressive starts saw the Perris, California native run at the front in both motos, giving him his first taste at running with the lead group.

While there’s been no word whether the fill-in role is being used as an ‘audition’ for the team, but Varize is making the most of his opportunity to throw his leg over factory equipment with another opportunity this Saturday at Hangtown fo the final round of the season.