Steward Baylor emerged as the victor in a thrilling comeback at round six of the 2024 Progressive Grand National Cross Country Series. Ironman Raceway presented challenging conditions after Saturday’s rain, with Baylor making a dramatic pass late in the race to secure the overall win.
The XC1 Open Pro class began with Johnathan Girroir taking the lead, holding it for five laps until Baylor, steadily advancing through the pack, overtook him on the final lap. Despite Girroir crossing the line second, a penalty for pitting outside his designated area pushed him to third overall. Craig Delong of Rockstar Energy Factory Husqvarna Racing secured second place after a strong performance, starting from fifth on the grid.
Jordan Ashburn of Coastal GASGAS Factory Racing fought his way to fourth overall, while Phoenix Racing Honda’s Mike Witkowski rounded out the top five despite starting in third position.
In the XC2 250 Pro class, Angus Riordan of FMF KTM Factory Racing Lander’s team battled with teammate Grant Davis and AmPro Yamaha’s Liam Draper throughout the race. Riordan ultimately clinched the win, with Davis and Draper taking second and third respectively.
Dakoda Devore of Devore/KTM/FXR/SRS Suspension triumphed in the FMF XC3 125 Pro-Am class after a hard-fought race, with Dustin Simpson and Jhak Walker rounding out the podium.
The AMSOIL Hoosier Top Amateur honors went to Husqvarna-backed Jason Tino, Kawasaki Team Green’s Nicholas DeFeo, and KTM-backed Cooper Jones in the 250 A class.
In the WXC race, Rocky Mountain Red Bear Kawasaki’s Rachael Archer secured her third win of the season, with Shelby Turner and Rachel Gutish completing the top three.
Former professional racer Charlie Mullins made a remarkable return to GNCC Racing, winning the Sportsman A class.
In the youth categories, Caleb Wood emerged victorious in the Youth Bike race, Travis Lentz continued his dominance in the YXC2 Super Mini Jr. class, and various other young talents showcased their skills across different age groups.
The Micro Bike overall win went to Tripp Lewis, with notable performances from Ellis Austin, Daxton Mullins, and Kane Morrison in their respective classes.
Round six of the GNCC series provided thrilling racing action across multiple classes, with competitors demonstrating skill and determination in challenging conditions.
