Forsyth teen is among top motocross riders in the US. He’s competing for national title

A Forsyth teen will soon be headed out of state to compete in the 43rd annual Monster Energy AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship.

Kaiden Stripling, 15, secured his spot in the championship in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee, after participating in a two-step qualifying process.

Stripling, who is ranked among the top 45 amateur riders in the nation, said he started racing bikes at the age of 4. He said qualifying for the championship was an awesome feeling and he can’t wait to compete.

“My family rides and races - that’s how I got started,” he said. “I love it; all your worries go away when you’re on the bike.”

The American Motorcyclist Association offers a wide range of amateur motocross racing opportunities at some of the most iconic race tracks around the nation at places like Budds Creek, Unadilla, RedBud, Washougal and more — the same tracks ridden by professionals in the Pro Motocross Championship.

Now in its fifth decade of operation, the AMA Amateur Motocross National Championship is the largest and most prestigious amateur motocross championship in the world, according to the American Motorcyclist Association website.

To qualify for the AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship riders must rank high enough in the Area Qualifiers and the Regional Championships, which are divided into eight different geographical regions consisting of the Northeast, Southeast, Mid-East, North Central, South Central, Northwest, Midwest and Southwest.

Only riders who finish in a qualifying position at a Regional Championship are eligible to race during the National Championship.

This year the races took place in dozens of different states beginning with more than 50 Area Qualifiers. Thirteen Regional Championships ran through eight regions in the United States.

Stripling’s mom, Jessica Stripling, said it’s a surreal feeling watching her son race - pushing him to be the best but also praying that he’s safe.

“A lot of work went into this, the boy can ride and he’s really been able to show that this year,” she said.

The championship will take place from July 29 to Aug. 3 at Loretta Lynn’s Ranch, home to country music legend Loretta Lynn and her family. Racers will travel from all over the United States and Canada to compete in the prestigious event.

Stripling, whose bike number is 279 , said representing his hometown is a proud moment and he plans to keep chasing big dreams.

“I wouldn’t be where I am without Jesus, my parents, grandparents, and all my supporters,” he said.

Jessica Stripling said she couldn’t be more proud of her son and that the event will have extra special meaning. She said Stripling plans to be baptized at the national race - “that makes my mama heart the most happy.”