The California RoadRace Association (CRA) made a triumphant return to Buttonwillow Raceway Park – The Circuit on September 12–13, 2026 marking Round 3 of the 2026 racing season. This event was not just a showcase of high-octane racing but also a testament to CRA’s commitment to fostering new talent and expanding the motorcycle racing community.
The weekend was a whirlwind of adrenaline-fueled action, with close races across multiple classes and the successful launch of CRA’s Sportsman racing initiative. This program aims to bridge the gap between street and track-day riders and the competitive racing scene, making it easier for enthusiasts to take their first steps into the sport.
The Heavyweight GP: A Battle of Speed and Strategy
One of the most anticipated races of the weekend was the Heavyweight GP on Sunday. Eugene McMahel riding a 2025 Ducati V4S with Dunlop tires started strong, leading the first six laps and building a substantial 7.4-second advantage. However, a miscalculation at Turn 7 cost him the lead, allowing Sahar Zvik on a 2024 Yamaha R1 and Haydn Meng on a 2022 Suzuki GSX-R750 to take the forefront.
McMahel’s resilience shone through as he closed an 11-second gap and set the Round 3 lap record of 1:42.68. The battle intensified as McMahel and Meng fought for position heading into Turn 6. Meng secured the lead, while McMahel’s brief excursion into the dirt prevented a final charge at Zvik. Sahar Zvik emerged victorious, with McMahel securing second place. In the Middleweight GP Haydn Meng dominated, taking the victory with a commanding 29-second lead.
Lightweight GP: A Thrilling Finish
The Lightweight GP sponsored by Oculus Financial Group delivered its own share of excitement. Geiser Hernandez on a 2023 Aprilia RS660 and Gio Alvarez on a 2026 Aprilia RS660 engaged in a fierce battle throughout the race, even sharing a fist bump mid-race. Hernandez ultimately claimed victory by a razor-thin margin of 0.17 seconds.
Amateur Classes: Rising Stars and Standout Performances
The amateur classes were a highlight of Round 3, showcasing the depth of talent within the CRA community. Jonathan Romero on a 2009 Yamaha R6 delivered a standout victory in the Amateur 600 Supersport sponsored by Speed Wobble. Meanwhile, Ryan Dean on a 2024 Yamaha R6 posted the fastest lap of the race at 1:47.76 and went on to take first place in the Amateur 1000 Supersport sponsored by Adrian Law Firm.
Stephanie Krahnke also made waves as a standout rider in the Amateur 1000 Supersport aboard a borrowed 2023 Yamaha XSR900 from Carbon Merrill with Dunlop tires. Running predominantly in the 1:53s, Krahnke set a personal-record pace while battling Jared Diamond on a 2014 Yamaha R1 and Adam Thiesen on a 2014 Suzuki GSX-R750. Her consistency, determination, and racecraft highlighted the growing strength of CRA’s amateur field.
CRA Sportsman Program: Paving the Way for New Racers
Round 3 marked the debut of CRA’s Sportsman racing initiative designed to provide street riders and track-day enthusiasts with an opportunity to experience racing without the immediate need for a fully prepared racebike. The program attracted 15 registrations, with 12 racers taking the grid on Saturday morning. Sergio Rios took the inaugural Sportsman victory aboard his 2017 Yamaha R6.
The successful debut of the Sportsman program demonstrates its potential to create a pathway for riders who have wanted to race but may have been hesitant due to financial and logistical commitments. This initiative is a significant step towards expanding access to motorcycle racing and creating opportunities for new riders.
Community and Education: The Heart of CRA
CRA continues to emphasize education, mentorship, and community alongside competition. The Racer411 program led by Antlee Terry and Aliki Karayan provides guidance and support to new racers making the transition into organized competition. Additionally, CRA hosted its Saturday night social, sponsored by Coyote Bar and Grill bringing racers, families, and members of the motorcycle community together after a full day at the track.
These programs remain an integral part of CRA’s mission to create a welcoming environment where riders of every experience level can compete, learn, and grow. The organization’s commitment to fostering a supportive community is evident in every aspect of its events.
Looking ahead, CRA will return to Buttonwillow Raceway Park – The Circuit on October 17–18, 2026 for the 2026 season finale. Round 4 will place a special focus on women in motorcycle racing, with CRA preparing one of its largest initiatives yet to encourage more women to get onto the racetrack. Following the success of the Sportsman program in Round 3, CRA will continue its efforts to expand access to motorcycle racing and create opportunities for riders who want to take the next step.
All race results can be found at .
CRA extends its gratitude to title sponsor Oculus Financial Group alongside key partners whose combined backing makes the 2026 race season possible.
