Buckwheat 100 GNCC Finale: Russell and Riordan Claim Victories as Ashburn Secures Championship
The Progressive Grand National Cross Country (GNCC Racing) Series concluded its 2026 season over the weekend with the Buckwheat 100 GNCC finale, showcasing high-stakes racing and dramatic outcomes.
Kailub Russell clinched the overall win in the PM bike race, executing a decisive last-lap pass. Liam Draper and Grant Davis completed the podium, finishing second and third respectively. Notably, Jordan Ashburn’s sixth-place finish earned him the 2026 GNCC title, solidifying his position as a top competitor in the series.
In the XC2 class, Angus Riordan emerged victorious, not only winning the race but also securing the XC2 championship. Toby Cleveland and Jason Tino followed him to round out the podium, contributing to a strong showing for Phoenix Racing Honda, which celebrated dual championships this season with Ashburn’s overall title and Riordan’s triumph in XC2.
In the WXC race, Korie Steede claimed victory, outperforming Danielle McDonald and Brandy Richards. Despite her second-place finish, Richards secured the WXC championship, marking a successful season.
This finale underscored the competitive nature of the GNCC series, with high-tension races and impressive performances from established and emerging riders alike. For a comprehensive breakdown of the race and additional insights, refer to the post-race recap.
