Local motocross racer Jace Williams, 17, of Chandler, has officially qualified for the Monster Energy AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship at Loretta Lynn’s Ranch in Waverly, TN— the world’s largest amateur motocross race and the most prestigious in the U.S.
The race runs July 28-Aug. 2, and features only 42 riders per class, selected from thousands of hopefuls across the country.
Known as the “Super Bowl of amateur motocross,” Loretta’s brings together the nation’s top riders for a grueling test of speed, skill and stamina on a national-caliber track. It’s the ultimate proving ground for young athletes chasing their dreams of going pro. This will be Jace’s fourth time earning a place on the gate at Loretta’s.
This year’s race is especially meaningful for the Williams family. Two years ago, while training, Jace suffered a serious accident when his bike’s motor seized mid-air, causing him to be thrown off. What might have been a minor fall became far more severe when the bike landed on top of him, resulting in extensive and slowhealing injuries. His dreams of racing were put on hold, and his parents made the difficult decision to sell his equipment, unsure if he’d ever return to the sport.
He then decided to give it one more chance last November, though his parents were a bit reluctant. They still supported him fully through the journey.
Due to his time off the bike, Jace had to forfeit other racing opportunities, and sponsorships. Now, he says he’s never felt more ready for this competition.
“I feel like I’m in great shape and mentally prepared for what’s needed to do well at Loretta’s this year. I’ll be racing in the 250B Limited and Schoolboy 2 classes this year. I feel fortunate to be able to do what I love with the support of my family, grandparents, and friends,” he said. “Robbie and Robert Reynard, all of my sponsors, and my mechanic, Mike Forkner, have all helped me a great deal prepare for the big race.”
Jace will be up against an intimidating lineup of the top racers, several of whom have earned factory rides and manufacturer support.
To secure his spot at Loretta Lynn’s, Jace competed in two area qualifiers— one in New York and another at Reynard Raceway in Wellston, OK— before advancing to a regional event in Texas, where he earned his ticket to the ranch.
Jace began riding at the age of 3, following in the footsteps of his father, Jason Williams, a Chandler business owner, and his late grandfather and uncles - all of whom had deep roots in the sport. Jace’s father has raced most of his life before owning a motorsports dealership and serving as an agent to pro racers in the industry. His mother also comes from a racing family and grew up cheering on her father and two brothers at the track.
In 2019, Jace was selected to represent Team USA at the MX Masters International Race in Verdun, France, where he brought home a gold medal—an experience he and his family will never forget.
Jace trains under world-renowned motocross trainer Robbie Reynard at Reynard Training Complex in Wellston, OK. Jace is in great hands under the direction of Robbie, who won six AMA National titles at Loretta Lynn’s, and is the youngest rider to win an AMA Pro Motocross race at 16.
Jace trains alongside a group of likeminded athletes in Wellston from all over the United States who compete at all levels and across a wide range of classes. This competitive and supportive environment has helped shape Jace into a skilled and mentally focused racer.
Off the track, Jace is a dedicated student who maintains a place on the A/B Honor Roll. His hobbies include road and BMX biking, golf, helping on the family’s mini ranch, and creating custom graphics for video games.
This fall, he will begin his senior year of high school, bringing the same drive and focus to the classroom that he brings to motocross.
Fans and supporters can follow Jace’s journey—including photos, results, and live timing updates—on Facebook and Instagram at @JaceWilliams47. Reynard Raceway in Wellston will be hosting an area race this weekend if anyone from the public would like to come watch.
Details are listed on their Facebook page.