Four Clay County students joined youth from across the U.S. to compete in the National Marbles Tournament held last month in Wildwood, NJ for a chance to be crowned kind and queen of marbles, a $2,000 college scholarship, and a $500 good sportsmanship scholarship. Eighth-grader Bridget Cherry (pictured at right with her trophy) was the highest local finisher with a 4th place during the preliminaries, giving her the chance to compete the final day in the semifinals.  Seventh-grader Madison Hayes and fifth-grader Ethan Hayes both finished the week in 15th place, and sixth-grader Elijah Dale finished the week in 23rd place. They are pictured above with coach Brian Cherry. The Clay County marbles team offered thanks to all of their sponsors for the opportunity to attend the Nationals each year. (photos submitted)

Clay County marble players competed in the Nationals on the Jersey Shore. (photo courtesy www.facebook.com/pg/NationalMarblesTournament)