2026 Great Lakes Challenge: Max Kuenning wins 1/8 Open on-road with his Xray

Photo: Red RC (source)

The 2026 Great Lakes Challenge celebrated its 26th edition on 24 August at the TSRCAR track in Lebanon, Ohio. Nearly 100 entries turned up for this key American nitro on-road meeting, and it was Max Kuenning who came away with the 1/8 Open win aboard his Xray.

1/8 Open: Kuenning comes through

The main event first looked like a straight duel. Kuenning and Chris Tossolini fought it out at the front for the opening minutes, until Tossolini retired at the 16-minute mark. From then on the former ROAR national champion simply reeled off the laps to the chequered flag.

Behind him, Sal Difazio put his Mugen Seiki in second place, while Scotty Ernst completed the 2026 Great Lakes Challenge podium with his Infinity.

A TQ double in qualifying

Kuenning’s weekend had already started very well: over five qualifying rounds he took pole position in both 1/8 and 1/10 Nitro Touring Car. A TQ double that says a lot about the American driver’s consistency on this kind of flowing layout.

1/8 Sedan and Nitro GT: Dunn and Netune Jr share the honours

In 1/8 Sedan, Kuenning’s race ended at the 4-minute mark, opening the way for David Dunn. Scott Fisher finished second ahead of Chris Doseck. Finally, in 1/8 Nitro GT, Claude Netune Jr took the win with his Serpent.