The Island Invasion GP at Lake Havasu once again proved why it stands as one of the most-anticipated and best-attended stops on the WORCS Racing Series calendar. With more than 1350 entries spread across the March 7-8 weekend, the pits were packed, and the energy was unmistakable as racers and fans alike descended on the shoreline for a round that has become one of the championship’s crown jewels.
Story & Photos by Connor Moore
When the gate dropped for the Pro 450 class on Sunday, it was Tyler Lynn who wasted no time asserting himself at the front of the pack. Lynn grabbed the holeshot and immediately began pushing the pace, laying down a scorching 5:11.501 lap, which would stand as the fastest lap of the entire weekend across the pro divisions. Still recovering from a wrist injury sustained earlier in the season in Blythe, Lynn knew he was walking a fine line between pushing for a win and protecting his health for the remainder of the championship. As the race wore on and the rough Havasu terrain continued to punish riders, he managed his pace and brought the bike home in fourth place, salvaging valuable championship points. The speed he showed early on made it clear that once he’s fully healed, he’ll be right back in the fight, and he’s already looking ahead to make a statement at the next round in Reno.
Up front, the race eventually belonged to Beta’s Dare DeMartile, who once again demonstrated the kind of composure and consistency that wins championships. DeMartile kept himself in contention early with steady laps in the low 5:20 range, avoiding mistakes while others began to feel the effects of the deteriorating course. As riders ahead faltered or struggled with the brutal terrain, DeMartile capitalized, moving into the lead and eventually stretching the gap, taking his first win of the season.
Close behind was KTM rider Mason Semmens, who delivered an impressive ride to finish second. Semmens stayed within striking distance throughout much of the race, matching the leaders’ pace and maintaining consistent laps as the ruts deepened and the sand sections became increasingly unforgiving. The final podium position went to Yamaha rider Justin Hoeft. Hoeft avoided major issues and steadily worked his way into a strong finishing position by the time the checkered flag waved. The battle behind the podium remained just as intense, with riders like Kawasaki rider Giacomo Redondi continuing to show strong pace as the championship picture began to take shape.
Sunday’s action also featured another chapter in one of the season’s most exciting rivalries in the Pro 250 class between Honda-mounted Sam Pretscherer and KTM rider Cole Zeller. The two have been trading blows throughout the season, and Havasu was no exception. Both riders came out aggressively early, but as the race progressed, Pretscherer found the rhythm needed to conquer the rough conditions. Posting consistent laps through the mid-5-minute range, Pretscherer gradually separated himself from the field while maintaining control through the deep sand and growing ruts. Zeller was in the lead for most of the race after a few costly mistakes early on by Pretscherer caused him to fight from almost the back of the field, and with just a few laps to go, he made the pass and was able to separate enough to take the win in Lake Havasu. Completing the podium was KTM rider Noah Gordon, who delivered an impressive performance to secure third place while navigating the increasingly brutal track conditions. Just behind him, riders like Dustyn Davis (Husqvarna) and Kayden Lynn (Kawasaki) fought through the demanding terrain to round out the top five.
Saturday’s racing produced its own headline moment in the Women’s Pro class with the arrival of a new challenger. SLR Honda rider Mikayla Nielson made her presence known in a big way, putting together an impressive ride against the defending champion Lauren Woods (GasGas). By the time the checkered flag flew, Nielsen had claimed a standout victory, signaling that the Women’s Pro class may have a new contender to watch.CN
2026 WORCS Round 3 Results
Pro 450 (Top 5)
- Dare DeMartile (Bet) 1:59:13.048 (22 laps)
- Mason Semmens (KTM) 2:00:57.837
- Justin Hoeft (Yam) 2:03:03.319
- Tyler Lynn (Hon) 1:59:15.683 (21 laps)
- Giacomo Redondi (Kaw) 1:59:21.933
Pro 250 (Top 5)
- Sam Pretscherer (Hon) 1:59:50.126 (22 laps)
- Cole Zeller (KTM) 2:01:07.000
- Noah Gordon (KTM) 2:02:55.546
- Dustyn Davis (Hus) 2:03:07.000
- Kayden Lynn (Kaw) 1:59:43.850 (21 laps)
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Click here to read the 2026 WORCS Round 3 Results in the Cycle News Digital Edition Magazine.
