3/23/2026
California 305 Sprint Series
METHANOL SPILLS, TRACK SEALS, SPIN REELS…ALL IN A NIGHT'S RACING
Bakersfield, CA — March 21, 2026 kicked off the season in spectacular fashion for the California 305 Sprint Series presented by Quick Change Liquid Energy, delivering a night packed with intensity, unpredictability, and nonstop action.
A strong field of 18 cars checked in, marking this the highest car count in recent years. Familiar names returned to defend their turf, including 2025 Champion Davey Pombo and Rookie of the Year Rino Felicioni, alongside seasoned veterans like Kevin Barnes, Lance Jackson, and Anthony Pombo. New talent made their mark as well, with rookies Jaydon Barnes and Andrew Martin stepping into the spotlight. Adding to the excitement, teams traveled hundreds, even thousands, of miles, including Washington’s Jeff Westergard, showing just how strong the draw of the CSS305 has become.
Qualifying, presented by BR Motorsports, challenged drivers with a slick and technical surface. Rookie Andrew Martin stunned the field early with a 16.205 lap, holding strong against seasoned competitors until veteran Phil Heynen edged ahead. Moments later, former champion George Tristao Jr. laid down a blistering 15.824, securing Quick Time and setting the tone for the night.
Heat races brought fans to their feet with relentless side-by-side racing, slide jobs, and even three-wide battles down the backstretch. Connor Danell set the fastest lap of the night with an impressive 14.398, further proving just how competitive the field was.
The 25-lap feature, presented by Quick Change Liquid Energy, delivered everything fans could ask for. From the drop of the green, chaos and excitement unfolded, 360 spins, tip-overs, hard contact, and mechanical heartbreak. Jeremy Alves Jeremy Alves Motorsports dominated early, leading 18 laps, but never found comfort as Tristao applied constant pressure.
The race intensified late as Skagit Skagit Speedways very own Westergard charged from 7th to 2nd, showcasing the strength of out-of-state talent. Meanwhile, Davey Pombo carved his way from 10th to 3rd, earning Hard Charger honors in a relentless drive through the field. When the dust settled, it was George Tristao Jr. standing in victory lane claiming the Quick Change funded winner of $1,000, followed by Westergard and Pombo in a hard-fought podium finish.
One of the most unforgettable moments came on lap 7, when a red flag incident involving Rino Felicioni and Davey Pombo catching Cody Samuels off guard, brought the action to a halt. What followed was something fans won’t soon forget, after a methanol spill created a dangerous situation, the Fire and Safety crew made the call to ignite the fuel for a controlled burn. It was a bold, professional decision that not only ensured safety but delivered a rare and thrilling spectacle for the crowd.
The night also highlighted the importance of valued partners, as the American Racer Tire Southwest contingency awards rewarded performance and loyalty. George Tristao Jr. earned the $100 certificate for highest finishing driver on three American Racer tires, with Davey Pombo collecting an additional $50 award.
As teams regroup and prepare for the upcoming two-day showdown at Tulare Thunderbowl Raceway, the momentum is undeniable. The energy, competition, and growing car counts prove that the California 305 Sprint Series is on the rise.
None of this would be possible without the incredible support of our partners. The entire CSS305 family extends a heartfelt thank you to title sponsor Quick Change Liquid Energy, along with HD-TI, American Racer Tire Southwest, and BR Motorsports. Their commitment is helping drive this series forward, and if opening night was any indication, 2026 is going to be unforgettable.
Quick Change Liquid Energy HD-TI American Racer Tire Southwest BR Motorsports Bakersfield Speedway
Article Credit: Alicia Garges