The 2026 Costa Mesa Grand Prix brought another exciting day of criterium racing to Orange County, serving as the final race of the Southern California bicycle racing season. Held on a fast, spectator-friendly circuit around Hyland Avenue, the event attracted racers of all categories while families, cycling fans, and local residents enjoyed a full day of competition, community activities, BMX demonstrations, local vendors, and the popular Kids Bike Race. The combination of elite racing and a festival atmosphere made for a memorable finish to the regional racing calendar.
A Fast, Technical Course Rewards Skill and Strategy
The Costa Mesa Grand Prix course featured a flat, high-speed circuit that encouraged aggressive racing from the opening laps. Long straightaways allowed riders to build speed before entering technical corners that demanded precise bike handling and strong positioning. The layout rewarded teamwork while giving solo riders opportunities to launch attacks and test their legs against the field.
With spectators lining much of the course, riders received constant encouragement throughout the day, creating an energetic atmosphere that added to the excitement of every race.
Pro Men Race
The Pro 1/2 Men’s race featured an impressive field of elite riders and aggressive racing from start to finish. Attacks formed throughout the event as teams battled to establish breakaways and control the pace on the fast circuit.
Tomas Aguirre (Transportes LAIN) emerged victorious after a strong performance, taking a solo win ahead of Justin Williams (L39ION of Los Angeles). Danny Finneran completed the podium after remaining among the front group during the decisive closing laps.
Pro Men Top 5 Results
1 Tomas Aguirre (Transportes LAIN)
2 Justin Williams (L39ION of Los Angeles)
3 Danny Finneran
4 Emmanuel Ramirez (SoCalCycling.com Team)
5 Alex Akins (SpeedBlock-Terún Cycling)
Chloe Patrick (Caldera Medical X Aurea Racing) sprints to victory.
Pro Women Race
The Pro Women delivered another exciting contest as riders traded attacks throughout the race while maintaining a relentless pace on the technical circuit. Strong teamwork and tactical positioning proved essential as the laps wound down.
Chloe Patrick claimed the victory with an impressive ride, while Holly Breck secured second place. Laura Camila Arenas Buritica rounded out the podium after a determined performance in the closing laps.
Pro Women Top 5 Results
1 Chloe Patrick (Caldera Medical X Aurea Racing)
2 Holly Breck (L39ION of Los Angeles)
3 Laura Camila Arenas Buritica (ELLAS)
4 Samantha Bosco (Caldera Medical X Aurea Racing)
5 Elisa Luo (Monarch Racing)
SCNCA Elite District Championships
The Costa Mesa Grand Prix also hosted the SCNCA Elite District Championships where the Elite Men and Women race for the Championship title and jersey.
Championship Winners
- Women 1/2 – Chloe Patrick (Caldera Medical X Aurea Racing)
- Women 3 – Orthja Efinger (Alta Velo)
- Men – Pro 1/2 – Danny Finneran
- Men – Cat 3 – Alex Rodriguez (Go Fast)
Results
Full Results & Upcoming Events
SoCal Racing Season Finale
The Costa Mesa Grand Prix once again demonstrated why it has become one of Southern California’s favorite criterium events. Its fast course, enthusiastic crowds, family-friendly activities, and competitive racing created an outstanding experience for racers and spectators alike. As the final race of the 2026 Southern California road racing season, the event provided a memorable conclusion to months of competition while celebrating the region’s vibrant cycling community. With another successful edition complete, riders and fans can already look forward to returning for more exciting racing next season.
Photos – Frank Sarate / SoCalCycling.com
