Hutchinson Edges Staropoli in Barber Two-Stroke Cash Race
The 21st Barber Vintage Festival concluded at Barber Motorsports Park, with the Open 2-Stroke Money Race moved to Sunday, October 11, after wet weather disrupted Saturday. Fourteen riders competed for a $4,700 purse on 125cc, 250cc, and larger two-stroke machines. Oliver Hutchinson passed Ralph Staropoli on lap five and held on to win by 20 bike lengths, with Staropoli second.
The 21st Barber Vintage Festival ended at Barber Motorsports Park after rain on Saturday forced officials to move the Open 2-Stroke Money Race to Sunday, October 11, 2026. Clear skies and a dry surface greeted 14 entrants competing for a $4,700 purse.
The field mixed 125cc Grand Prix machines, 250cc twins, and larger two-strokes. Ralph Staropoli led the opening four laps on a Honda RS250 before Oliver Hutchinson passed at the Museum Turn on a Yamaha TZ250. Nobi Iso won the 125cc class on a Honda RS125. Sponsors included Rising Sun Cycles, Mojo Racing, 4 Anonymous, San Diego Sash Company, and TZ Mike Studzinski; Bridgestone supplied winner tires.
The race may strengthen interest in vintage motorcycle racing and two-stroke culture, drawing riders, collectors, mechanics, and fans to events like Barber. A larger purse and sponsor support could encourage more entrants and help preserve mechanical skills and historic machines. Local businesses around the track may see modest tourism spending. For enthusiasts, the event could serve as a community gathering and a reminder of motorsport heritage, though its broader societal reach may remain niche.