For the Monroe teenager, competing in a national motocross competition is a dream come true
Ever since Michael Nussbaum hopped on his first dirt bike at age six, he knew it was something he would do forever. Now, 10 years later, the 16-year-old Monroe resident is competing in the 41st Monster Energy AMA National Amateur Motocross Championship at the famed Loretta Lynn Ranch in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee.
“It’s been my dream since I was little,” Nussbaum said of qualifying for the competition.
Michael Nussbaum
The AMA National Amateur Motocross Championship is revolutionary in the world of motocross. To even be considered, riders must be ranked and have earned 60 or more advancement points in various races continuously.
With over 1,000 entrants from various locations around the world, spanning 36 different competition classes, those who compete in the National Amateur Championship compete with the very best.
“Just being here makes you an elite racer and top athlete,” said MX Sports Director Tim Cotter. “A solid finish at Loretta would give you instant national recognition and a possible professional career.”
The AMA National Amateur Motocross Championship runs August 1-6 and Nussbaum competes in the 125C event, while riding his 125cc motorcycle in the 250cc Jr class.
keep on rolling
Motocross has become an important part of Nussbaum’s life and it’s something he dedicates his time to. “I travel all over the United States to run,” he said. “I’ve won many races and state championships in many different states.”
A fierce competitor, Nussbaum also placed and won overalls for D34mx races and won races at his local track at the Milford Riders Club, making him an AMA Championship qualifier.
Due to his success in motocross, Nussbaum has earned numerous sponsors including the Milford Riders Club, Dunlop, Mx Tire, Moto Chiropractic, Factory Connection, FXR, Colonial Power Sport, BTO, Aggressive Graphix and Town & Country Cycle Center.
“Some sponsors see me at races or on the track, and some I get when applying with my resume,” he said. “Others are because they love motocross and want to help out.”
Nussbaum’s family supported him throughout his racing experience. From going to training together, watching races, and traveling to various locations across the country for competitions, they are there for it all.
“My mom works around the clock and my dad makes sure my bikes are perfect,” Nussbaum said. “We do everything as a family. We are always together.”
Despite early success, Nussbaum acknowledges that not everything in motocross is easy. “Like everything, there are challenges,” he said. “You just have to find a balance. »
Nussbaum doesn’t see a future without motocross. “My dream is to become a professional racer,” he said, “to keep riding.”
