Ray Oxley is stepping confidently into the next chapter of his racing career, locking in a brand new Wally Stroupe built GXP for the 2026 season and the years ahead.
The car itself carries a rare and impressive history. Originally built for Richard Freeman of Elite Motorsport, the chassis has never competed. Despite changing hands a number of times since its completion, it has never turned a wheel in anger, making it a unique find for Oxley.
“That’s exactly why I bought it,” Oxley said. “It’s a 2010-built GXP, but it’s essentially brand new. Opportunities like that don’t come around very often.”
Before it makes its first appearance on track, the car will head to the paint shop, where it will be finished in a sleek grey metallic similar to the well-known Cobalt colour scheme, giving it a sharp and modern look to match the fresh program.
Behind the scenes, a strong team is already in place to bring the project together. G Force Fabrications and Superduty Engineering are assisting with key fabrication work, while Ridgeway Motorsport and Custom Engines are handling the engine program. The current engine is being rebuilt, while a brand-new engine combination is also being prepared for later in the 2026 season.
Oxley is realistic but optimistic when it comes to performance expectations as the new package comes together.
“If we can get everything working the way we want it to, I’d love to see some very low seven-second passes and maybe even some high sixes,” he said.
Once the new engine is completed and ready to go, Oxley expects the existing engine to be placed on the market as the focus fully shifts to the new combination.
More than just a new car, the project represents a clear long-term commitment to Pro Stock racing.
“This really locks me into Pro Stock for the next few years,” Oxley said. “Once the new engine is fitted and the car becomes consistent enough, the goal is to go some rounds and be competitive. Time will tell, but I’m genuinely excited about what’s ahead.”
With a fresh, unraced car, a proven support team and a long-term plan in place, Ray Oxley’s 2026 Pro Stock campaign is already building strong momentum well before the first pass is made.
Photo: Cackling Pipes
