Hudson Valley, this one hits close to home.

Clayton DeClemente, a Poughkeepsie native and Arlington High School graduate, is officially heading to the 2026 Winter Olympics as a member of Team USA in short track speed skating.

The 26-year-old will compete in the 1,000-meter and 1,500-meter events when the Games begin Feb. 4 in Italy. Long before Olympic ice, Clayton was skating locally and playing roller hockey, where his speed quickly turned heads.

That early talent launched him from Hudson Valley rinks to elite training in Salt Lake City, and now, to the world stage in Milan. Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino is encouraging residents to cheer him on—and it’s easy to see why.

From Poughkeepsie to the Olympics. Let’s go, Clayton. Let’s go, Team USA.