Strang Retires After 20 Year Career as Walker Finishes Runner Up in XC2 Championship

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Newburg, WV

Round Thirteen

November 08th, 2026

Strang Retires After 20 Year Career as Walker Finishes Runner Up in XC2 Championship

Liqui Moly Factory Beta Racing wrapped up the 2026 Progressive GNCC season at the Buckwheat 100 in Newburg, West Virginia, where Jhak Walker secured second in the final XC2 250 Pro Championship standings and Josh Strang competed in the final race of his 20 year professional GNCC career. Walker finished 4th in the XC2 250 Pro class and 10th overall at the season finale. Riding his Beta Factory RR 250 Race, Walker put together another strong performance to close out the season and earning second overall in the XC2 standings.

The weekend also marked an important milestone for Strang, who officially retired from professional racing following the Buckwheat 100. After 20 years competing at the professional level, the Australian born rider brought an accomplished racing career to a close. A former GNCC National Champion, Strang has been a consistent presence in off-road racing for two decades, earning the respect of competitors and fans throughout his career. Strang finished seventh in the Open Pro class in his final GNCC race. While his racing career has come to an end, he will remain involved with Beta as he continues his role with the Factory Racing program. Beta USA congratulates Josh on an outstanding 20 year racing career and thanks him for everything he has contributed to the sport and the team.

Results:
Josh Strang » 7th Place Open Pro

Jhak Walker » 4th Place XC2 » 10th Overall » 2nd Place Championship

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Factory RR 250 Race

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“It was a good way to close out the season. I would’ve liked to finish the final round on the podium, but fourth in XC2 and tenth overall was still a solid result. Looking back at the year, I’m really happy with how things went and proud to finish second in the championship. We had some great races, and I couldn’t have done it without the support of Beta and everyone behind me.”

Photos: Mack Faint

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Factory RR 480 Race

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“For me, reaching 20 years was never initially the goal, but after 15 years it was a cool goal to shoot for. I could and would love to race forever, but I’m happy and content with my racing career. It is also nice to have a role to step into at Beta USA and I look forward to that.”

Photos: Mack Faint

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