Sonoma, CA – September 14, 2025 – Round 5 of the United States Touring Car Championship (USTCC) West series at Sonoma Raceway proved to be a nail-biting affair, highlighted by sensational performances and a dramatic last-lap overtake that had everyone on their feet.

The premier Grand Touring (GT) class saw a commanding performance from the pole-sitting Rose Construction Ecoblox BMW M4 GTS, driven by the seasoned duo of Doug Makishima. Makishima flawlessly navigated the challenging Sonoma circuit to secure a hard-fought victory after his main competition stalled at the start. The race, however, was not without early drama. Front-row threat Ehsan Farkhondeh suffered a major setback when his Chevy Camaro GT4 stalled on the grid. Despite the catastrophic start, Farkhondeh mounted an incredible recovery drive, charging through the field to secure a remarkable second-place finish. Rounding out the GT podium was Mike Donahoe, consistent and quick in his Ford Mustang.

The action intensified in the Touring Car (TC) class, which came down to a breathtaking finish. Ali Arsham, in the familiar GoGoGear.com/ Konig Wheels Hyundai Genesis, dominated the early stages after starting from pole position and led virtually the entire distance. But the returning veteran, Larry Bani, piloting his AFE Power BMW M3, was on a mission. Relentlessly tracking down Arsham throughout the race, Bani waited until the absolute final tour to make his move. In a gutsy pass, Bani snatched the lead on the final lap, crossing the line moments ahead of Arsham to claim a stunning victory. Arsham settled for a hard-earned second place, while Enrique Ferreira steered the ARG Motorsport/ Ecoblox BMW 330i to a terrific third-place finish.

In the Sportsman (SP) class, Andy Chittum continued his charge toward the championship, taking yet another impressive class win in his Mad Man Motorsport Mazda MX5. Chittum faced stiff competition from the GoGoGear.com / Konig Wheels Honda Civic of Tom Lepper, who finished in second place. Michael McColligan, behind the wheel of the MC Racing Honda Civic, held off the rest of the field to complete the Sportsman class podium in third.

The exhilarating on-track battles at Sonoma set the stage for a spectacular conclusion to the USTCC West season. For full results and championship standings, visit the official USTCC website at www.ustcc.com