Zach Cannon began his motocross career in Rome, but he’s come a long way in two short years.

The 8-year-old Alto Park 2nd-grader first competed at The Forum in the RPM Motorsports Stadium Cross tour. He took second place in his first event ever.

Now, two years later, Zach is showing just how far he’s come after receiving an invitation from KTM Motorcycles to compete in the Atlanta Supercross in the Georgia Dome on Feb. 23.

Zach started riding motorcycles at the age of 4, and decided at the last minute to compete two years ago at The Forum.

“He eats and sleeps motorcycles,” said his father Scott Cannon. “He had a snow day at school that day, and he wanted to race. So he went out there in his very first race and came in second. He’s come a long way since then”

Zach has gone on to win 2010 and 2011 Arenacross championships.

His upcoming event also has special meaning for Zach because it will be his first big event back since suffering an injury in April of 2011.

Zach crashed during a race, tearing his ACL and crushing his kneecap. He then spent eight weeks in a wheelchair and had to go into rehab to learn how to walk again.

Still, Zach is ready to get back out on the track.

“He’s calm and collected,” his father said. “It’s just another day for him. He always thanks God first. My stomach’s in knots.”

KTM Motorcycles will provide a brand-new bike for Zach to race in the event. He will also be furnished a professional pit crew and pit area.

“He just has to show up,” said Cannon.

Zach’s father said his son’s team is a family-oriented arrangement.

Zach’s sister Bailey, an 11-year-old Coosa Middle student, “contributes a great deal to his team. She does a whole lot for us.”

Zach is one of only 15 children selected to race in the event for 7- and 8-year-olds.

Zach trains with Shae Bentley a Supercross champion from 2000.

His sponsors include Dunlop Tires, EVS Sports, Amsol, GoPro, Leatt and Scott Goggles.

The race will be televised by Speed TV (Comcast 68).