A local motocross racer has qualified for a national event after racing competitively for less than a year.

Clayton Brady of Selma has earned the right to line up at a national race in Ponca City, OK. Brady garnered three third-place finishes at a national qualifier held at Monster Mountain in Tallassee last weekend and will represent Selma at the national race in two categories &045; Super Mini and 125 D.

Brady, a sophomore at Meadowview Christian, said he felt outclassed at the beginning of the weekend’s races but his confidence blossomed as the weekend wore on and his finishes improved.

Because it was a regional qualifier, racers from Kentucky, Georgia and Tennessee were on hand. The riders raced Saturday night on a Supercross-style track that is technical with multiple jumps and tight turns. Brady rode in four motos (races) that night and said he struggled with the tight set up, but did manage a third-place in the 125 D (beginner) class despite riding a smaller 100 cc machine.

On Sunday, the racing was held on Monster Mountain’s outdoor track that is more open and suited to Brady’s wide-open style. He gathered two more third-place trophies. The top 12 riders qualified for nationals so Brady made the cut.

Brady’s father and grandfather were also motorcycle racers.

After years of playriding, Brady entered his first race in September of last year. Since then, he has entered a few local races and sharpened his skills by practicing.

Brady said his parents, Bob and Teresa, are very supportive of his racing and his brother, Brian, keeps the KX 100 running.

Clayton said Cooper Smitherman and David Hulsey of Overlook Motors have helped him with his racing. Hulsey lets Brady ride on his practice track. Brady also thanked Gillis Cammack, a neighbor, who has allowed Brady to ride on his property.

The national race is scheduled to start July 29. Brady is hoping to make the trip and represent Selma. He is seeking sponsors to help defray some of the costs. Anyone interested in sponsoring him should call 872-5816.