2026 GNCC Season Opens with Big Buck Farm Race
The 2026 Progressive Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) Series commenced on Sunday at Big Buck Farm in South Carolina, featuring intense competition from top riders in the sport. In a decisive performance, Johnny Girroir (KTM) clinched the overall victory, showcasing his dominance on the rugged terrain.
Race Results
- Winner: Johnny Girroir (KTM)
- Second Place: Jordan Ashburn (Honda)
- Third Place: Nick DeFeo (Kawasaki, XC2 Class)
- Defending Champion: Ben Kelley (KTM) finished ninth overall.
Girroir’s expert handling and strategic racing placed him ahead throughout the event, solidifying his status as a contender for the season. Ashburn and DeFeo followed closely, demonstrating impressive skills, particularly on the challenging course.
Technical Insights
The Big Buck course tested riders’ endurance and technical abilities, with significant sections featuring brutal elevation changes and tight wooded trails. The varying conditions played a vital role in team strategies and bike setups, with KTMs performing well in both handling and acceleration.
Key Quotes
Reflecting on his victory, Girroir remarked, “The track was unforgiving, but I found my rhythm early on. Staying focused on my line was key today.” Ashburn acknowledged the challenge, stating, “It was tough out there, but we’re just getting started. There’ll be more opportunities.”
Context
The season opener not only sets the tone for the upcoming rounds but also highlights the competitive landscape of GNCC racing, where seasoned veterans and up-and-coming riders will battle for supremacy. The next round will build on the momentum established at Big Buck, with teams making strategic adjustments based on performance insights gained over the weekend.
For video highlights, fans can access both the concise highlights from the RacerTV broadcast and the extended raw edit of the race.
