Report: GNCC Series Underway at Buckwheat 100 with Key Changes and Injury News
MURRIETA, Calif. – The Progressive Grand National Cross Country Series (GNCC) continues this weekend at the Buckwheat 100, marking the 10th round of the season. The FMF KTM Factory Off-Road team is embroiled in its own internal competition, with Ben Kelley leading XC2 racer Grant Davis by just seven points in the overall standings.
In a significant shift for the upcoming race, the GNCC’s new starting procedure will see both XC1 and XC2 riders ranked in the Top 20 overall share the front row. The remaining competitors will line up from the second row, selecting their positions after the morning Amateur race. This adjustment aims to facilitate closer competition among top contenders right from the start. The organization plans to evaluate this format after the event for possible future implementation.
The decision comes as Kelley, returning to form after a series of injuries, aims to solidify his leadership amidst increased pressure from Davis. For the Buckwheat 100, both will face off against XC1 elites right at the start, intensifying their competition.
In parallel news, defending GNCC champion Johnny Girroir will miss this race due to a broken hand sustained prior to the International Six-Days Enduro. Despite racing with pain in that event and helping the U.S. team to a fourth-place finish, Girroir has opted for further recovery time, focusing on a full return for the final two GNCC races of the season.
“I’m gutted to say I’ll be missing a couple more races. My hand is still very sore and painful,” Girroir commented. “The team and I thought it was best to let it heal so I can be ready for the last two rounds of GNCC and come back strong in 2026.”
As the series progresses, Kelley and Davis’s rivalry intensifies, promising a captivating showdown at the Buckwheat 100.
