By Joe Seemayer –
Fox Sports captured every turn and slide from the infield, bringing national coverage to Ventura’s high-stakes short track showdown. On Saturday, April 26, the Progressive American Flat Track (AFT) series made its highly anticipated return to Ventura Raceway. Set against the scenic backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, the 1/5-mile clay oval hosted Round 4 of the 2025 season, reaffirming Ventura’s place on the national motorsports map.
SuperTwins Showdown: Bauman Breaks Through
In the premier Mission AFT SuperTwins class, two-time Grand
Briar Bauman (No. 3) snapped a frustrating podium drought with a 4.6- second
victory margin, holding off a hardcharging Dallas Daniels. Photo @jseemayerphoto.
Correction: The 5/14 issue contained errors regarding the winning riders at the Progressive American Flat Track (AFT) series held at Ventura Raceway on Saturday, April 26. Below are the correct results. We regret the error and appreciate your understanding.
SuperTwins (Top 10)
| rs | Briar Bauman | (H-D) | 33 Laps |
| 2. | Dallas Daniels | (Yam) | 0.881 |
| 3. | Jarod VanDerkooi | (KTM) | 1.074 |
| 4. | Brandon Robinson | (H-D) | 1.297 |
| 5. | Dan Bromley | (Suz) | 2.783 |
| 6. | Max Whale | (KTM) | 4.076 |
| 7. | Davis Fisher | (KTM) | 6.591 |
| 8. | James Ott | (Yam) | 7.429 |
| 9. | Trent Lowe | (Hon) | 10.141 |
| 10. | Logan McGrane | (KTM) | 11.060 |
Singles (Top 10)
| 1. | Kage Tadman | (KTM) | 26 Laps |
| 2. | Chase Saathoff | (Hon) | 0.977 |
| 3. | Tarren Santero | (Hon) | 1.834 |
| 4. | Tom Drane | (Yam) | 4.600 |
| 5. | Trevor Brunner | (Hon) | 5.792 |
| 6. | Jared Lowe | (Hon) | 5.926 |
| 7. | Aldan RoosEvans | (Yam) | 7.296 |
| 8. | Justin Anselmi | (Yam) | 9.472 |
| 9. | Evan Renshaw | (Hus) | 9.836 |
| 10. | Reece Pottorf | (Hon) | 10.914 |
National Champion Briar Bauman (No. 3 Rick Ware Racing/KTM/Parts Plus KTM 790 Duke), of Salinas, California, delivered a commanding performance that reminded fans why he remains one of the most respected names in the paddock. Known for his smooth, controlled style and dominance on both short tracks and miles, Bauman led every lap with precision and speed.
His decisive win—by a margin of 4.613 seconds—marked his first of the 2025 season and snapped a podium drought that had frustrated the veteran rider. After switching to the KTM 790 platform last year, Bauman’s continued adaptation appears to be paying off, positioning him once again as a title contender.
Dallas Daniels (No. 32 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT), a rising star from Illinois, showcased grit and racecraft by charging through the field after a mid-pack start. The 2022 Rookie of the Year and 2023 championship runner-up used patient, calculated overtakes and relentless pace to finish second. At just 20 years old, Daniels has proven he’s not just the future of the sport—he’s a serious threat in the present.
Reigning champion Jared Mees (No. 1 Rogers Racing/SDI Racing/Indian Motorcycle FTR750) rounded out the podium in third. A nine-time Grand National Champion, Mees is known for his mental toughness and strategic brilliance. While he couldn’t match Bauman’s pace this round, his consistency keeps him firmly in the championship conversation.
Together, Bauman, Daniels, and Mees put on a masterclass, showcasing the depth of talent in the SuperTwins field.
AFT Singles: Drane’s Tactical Triumph
In the Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER class, Tom Drane (No. 59 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) claimed his second win of the season. Drane’s consistency continues to set him apart as a serious championship contender.
Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 D&D Racing/Certified KTM 450 SX-F) and Trent Lowe (No. 48 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R) rounded out the podium, further illustrating the depth of young talent in the Singles division.
Local Impact and Community Engagement
Hosting the AFT event in Ventura generated a boost for local businesses—including hotels, restaurants, and shops—thanks to the influx of traveling fans. For Ventura locals, the race brought world-class motorsports to their backyard.
AFT’s Strategic West Coast Expansion
For Progressive AFT, the Ventura round represents a strategic step in expanding its West Coast presence. The strong turnout and enthusiastic crowd underscored the region’s appetite for elite motorcycle racing. Series organizers are now exploring additional events in California and neighboring states.
This expansion diversifies AFT’s geo- graphic reach while tapping into new fan bases and commercial opportunities.
Looking Ahead: September Return to Ventura
The Ventura Short Track reaffirmed the mutually beneficial relationship between AFT and host cities like Ventura. As the season continues, both communities and competitors stand to gain from the thrilling spectacle of flat track racing.
With the next Ventura event scheduled for Sept. 7, anticipation is already building for another night of high-speed action and community celebration.
For more information about Progressive American Flat Track and upcoming events, visit www.americanflattrack.com.
