This past Sunday, September 7th, Corner Exit Autocross took over Lake Elsinore Storm Stadium for an incredible day of racing and community. Drivers pushed their limits on a challenging course that blended speed with precision, and the atmosphere was electric from start to finish. From seasoned autocross regulars to first-timers, everyone had the chance to test their skills and enjoy the thrill of friendly competition.
The stadium setting added to the excitement, with plenty of space for spectators to cheer on the action and connect with fellow car enthusiasts. It was more than just racing — it was a gathering of people who share a passion for performance, control, and pushing themselves behind the wheel. Huge thanks to everyone who came out and made the event such a success — we can’t wait to do it again!
Michael Oest – The Autocross Alchemist
Michael Oest isn’t just a driver—he’s a gearhead genius, forging two track beasts that own Corner Exit’s autocross scene. His Mazda Miata and 2007 Porsche GT3 are proof of his wizardry, and he may be tearing up the Ep. 4 Touge Challenge on September 20 at Apple Valley Speedway—stream it live to see if this titan shows!
Oest’s Miata is a corner-carving scalpel, with suspension so dialed it slinks through autocross tracks corners like it’s on rails. Meanwhile, his Porsche GT3—his self-proclaimed “German hot rod”—is a snarling beast he’s owned since 2009. Rebuilt with custom springs, sway bars, a full suspension overhaul, and a controller for the shocks, it grips the track with beefy tires that scream performance. With a lightweight flywheel and transmission, it’s racked up 26,000 miles of pure joy, shredding every lap. Whether tweaking dynamics or dodging cones (the only sin at Corner Exit!), Michael’s builds shine in this playground where any car can come to play, learn, and compete.
Hear from Michael Oest what Auto Cross is all about. You don’t have to have a C8 corvette or a Porsche to come out and compete, you can grab the keys to mom’s Toyota Camry or Honda Odyssey and come out and have a blast. See you out there!!!
Jet Penano: The Young Racer Dominating Corner Exit’s Track
Jet Penano, only 18, is a force to be reckoned with in his latest Corner Exit interview, sharing what fuels his passion for racing. Don’t let his youth fool you—this driving machine holds his own against the best, tearing up Corner Exit events with precision and grit. He lights up talking about his friend’s Honda S2000—a standout with tasteful engine mods, Falken tires, a K&N cold air filter, a wide-body kit, an aero wing, and that classic S2000 soft top. His love for cars was born from early days at car shows and track events with his dad, sparking a journey that led to go-kart racing and autocross by age 15.
Jet loves Corner Exit’s vibe, with SCCA pros and beginners racing together in a safe, convenient setup. Drivers just bring their cars and race, no fuss, making it a fun, legal day on the track. He’s gearing up for the Ep. 4 Touge Challenge on September 20 at Apple Valley Speedway (stream live), ready to showcase his elite skills in head-to-head duels.
Meet 18 year old racer Jet Pinano as he tears into the corner exit modified Class in his friend’s Honda S2000. Hear how Jet got his start in Go Cart racing and honed his skills from mentors that shaped his racing journey. Jet shares his passion for Auto Cross, the thrill of the competition and the simplicity of Corner Exit auto cross events.
Insight and pointers from AlphaRex, Falken Tire and K&N Filters seasoned driver Jet Panano about your first time coming out to compete in Autocross. Let Jet help you take the nerves out of racing and focus on the fun. If you’re not first you’re still having a blast. Consistency build speed, speed doesn’t build consistency.
