NATCHEZ — Racecar driver Ryan Payton has had a rookie year to remember so far in 2014, and the year is only halfway over for the 15-year-old from Jonesville.

Ryan just came off a photo-finishing win at Motor Mile Speedway in Dublin, Va., Wednesday,

Prior to Wednesday, Ryan placed in the top six twice at Myrtle Beach Speedway in May, and he credits his crew chief, Jamie Yelton, and his parents, Kelli and Jackie, for all of the success he has had.

“I really just learned a lot from (Yelton) and my team because they have all done it before,” Ryan said. “Just learning from him has been the biggest thing for my success,”

Though Ryan has competed in several races this year in hopes to become a NASCAR driver some day, Ryan said racing could still be nerve racking.

“There are 30-40 year olds that have been doing this longer than I have been alive, and I have to beat their experience,” Ryan said. “(But winning) gives me confidence, and I’m ready for the rest of the season.”

Ryan was scheduled to compete in the Twin 75’s race at Southern National Motorsports Park tonight after qualifying through his win at Motor Mile, but inclement weather conditions cancelled the event.

Despite losing another chance at a top-five finish while he has the momentum, Ryan said he would be preparing to return to high school soon, and after completing his freshman year, he said he has learned how to manage his schoolwork and his career.

“Last year was hard because it was my first year in high school, but most of the teachers understood my schedule, and hopefully I have teachers this year that are understanding of what I do,” he said.