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Sexton, Wiley, Pombo Victorious on Opening Night

Santa Maria Speedway kicked off its 2026 season with an exciting night as fans packed the grandstands and drivers returned to the famed third-mile clay oval. On track were the California Regional 305 Sprint Car Series, California Lightning Sprints, Dwarf Cars, and WRA Vintage Sprints and Midgets.

The California Lightning Sprints signed in twelve cars for their first visit of the season. Shane Sexton and Tyler Warner picked up heat race wins. Liam Coffey and Bobby Michnowicz led the field to green for a 21-lap feature — an uncommon distance, with the extra lap dedicated to Wendy Michnowicz who recently passed away. Her son, Bobby Michnowicz, led the opening ten laps before Grant Sexton made the winning move and pulled away. Sexton took the victory, followed by Michnowicz, Braydin Collie, Shane Sexton, and Coffey.

Local Dwarf Cars picked up right where they left off. The 2025 Dwarf Car Champion, Brandon Wiley, was honored with his previous season championship jacket and banner prior to the feature. He and JD Brown earned heat race wins and shared the front row for the 25-lap main event. Brown led early before Wiley took over on lap six and never looked back, leading the rest of the way in a green-to-checkered run. Kobe Kerns completed the podium after battling Brown for second and holding off challenges from Daniel Peters and Ryan Caldwell.

In California Regional 305 Sprint Car Series action, George Tristao Jr. and Davey Pombo led the field to green for 20 laps. Pombo took the lead at the drop of the green and led all 20 laps to secure the win. Tristao finished second, followed by Jeremy Alves, Evan Dixon, and Kevin Barnes Sr.

For full event results, visit:
https://www.santamariaspeedway.net/schedules/event/604860

Santa Maria Speedway will return to action on April 25th featuring Tri-State Pro Stocks, IMCA Modifieds, IMCA SportMods, Hobby Stocks, and Mini Stocks. Pre-sale tickets and details are available on our website.

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