Lexington, TN (6/24/2009) - Clay Holmes started out the 2009 season with a bang, finishing in the top five at round one of the AMA ATV Motocross Nationals, but a crash resulting in a dislocated elbow took Holmes out of contention and had him missing the Unadilla round of the series.

Holmes made the announcement today that he will also be out for round number eight, scheduled for June 28 at Muddy Creek. “I didn’t think it would take this long to heal, but I still can’t bend my arm or do anything,” he said disappointedly.

Holmes was practicing with Joe Byrd at Byrd’s private track when the crash occurred. “Joe and I were rallying and we were going down this straight and I hit some really soft dirt and went down. I put my arms out to catch myself and ended up dislocating my elbow,” Holmes explained.

Holmes went to the hospital where he was put under anesthesia and a closed reduction was performed to put his elbow back into place. Although the procedure went well, and Holmes will not have to have future surgery, the rookie pro is still not sure when he will be able to compete again. “I have a follow up with the doctor in about a week and we’ll have to go from there. It’s frustrating because I haven’t be able to do anything, including training,” he said.

We at ATVRiders.com wish Clay a thorough and speedy recovery. Updates on Clay Holmes’ condition will be posted when that information is made available.