Competitive RC racing is where preparation, experience, and equipment all come together—and at the recent Forgass 2025/2026 Race #3 at Homestead RC Raceway Nitro Sedan A-Main, that combination was on full display. Among a stacked field of talented drivers, Fred Rodriguez secured an impressive 3rd place finish, running an iRacing T04 nitro engine purchased from MAD Hobbies.
For us, results like this mean more than just a podium spot. They reinforce what we aim to provide every racer who walks into our shop: reliable race-proven equipment, honest guidance, and support that helps drivers perform when it matters most.
Strong Competition in the Nitro Sedan Class
The Nitro Sedan class is one of the most competitive on-road RC racing categories. These cars demand precision in every area—engine tuning, chassis setup, tire choice, pit strategy, and most importantly, driver consistency. Unlike shorter sprint formats, Nitro Sedan mains reward racers who can maintain pace over long runs while avoiding mistakes and mechanical issues.
At Homestead RC Raceway, the layout pushes both car and driver. High-speed sections test engine pull and stability, while technical corners demand smooth throttle control and predictable power delivery. In this environment, reliability is just as critical as outright speed.
Race Results at Homestead RC Raceway
The Nitro Sedan A-Main brought together some of the fastest on-road racers in the region. After a hard-fought main event, the official results were as follows:
- 1st Place: Steven Hernandez
- 2nd Place: Jerry Guerra
- 3rd Place: Fred Rodriguez — 82 laps
Fred’s result was earned through clean driving, consistent lap times, and a setup that held together from start to finish. Over the course of the main, he avoided costly mistakes and kept steady pressure on the cars ahead—exactly what’s required to land on the podium in a class this competitive.
The Engine Behind the Result: iRacing T04
A key part of Fred’s race-day setup was his iRacing T04 nitro engine, which he purchased from MAD Hobbies. Engine choice plays a major role in Nitro Sedan racing, especially during longer mains where consistency and drivability often matter more than peak horsepower.
The iRacing T04 is a strong performer in this class, offering smooth throttle response, solid fuel mileage, and dependable top-end speed—qualities that are essential when racing in traffic or managing long green-flag runs.
Based on the O.S. Speed T1204 Platform
It’s worth noting that the iRacing T04 is based on the proven O.S. Speed T1204 platform, a design that has earned a strong reputation in competitive on-road nitro racing. The T1204 layout is known for its balanced power delivery, excellent mid-range pull, and long-run reliability—traits that carry over into the iRacing T04.
By building on this race-proven foundation, the iRacing T04 delivers performance that racers trust while remaining accessible and cost-effective. For Fred, that meant an engine he could rely on throughout the entire A-Main without needing to overdrive the car or manage unpredictable behavior.
The result was a package that stayed consistent from the opening laps to the checkered flag—exactly what’s needed to finish on the podium.
Consistency Wins Races
One of the most overlooked aspects of competitive RC racing is consistency. While outright speed can grab attention in qualifying, mains are often decided by who makes the fewest mistakes and who has equipment that performs the same way lap after lap.
Fred’s performance at Homestead was a textbook example of this. His car remained predictable in traffic, his engine delivered smooth and controllable power, and his pit strategy kept him in contention throughout the race. Over 82 laps, those small advantages added up.
In Nitro Sedan racing, that level of consistency is rarely accidental—it’s the result of good preparation and choosing components that work together as a complete system.
Supporting Racers at Every Level
At MAD Hobbies, we take pride in helping racers find the right setup for their goals. Whether you’re chasing podium finishes or just getting into nitro on-road racing, selecting the right engine is a critical first step.
Engines like the iRacing T04 are popular because they offer a strong balance of performance and reliability. Pairing that with proper break-in, quality fuel, and correct gearing can make a noticeable difference on race day.
We work closely with local racers to help dial in:
- Engine selection and setup
- Break-in and tuning guidance
- Fuel and glow plug choices
- Chassis compatibility and gearing
Seeing customers succeed at events like this reinforces why that support matters.
Local Racing Roots in Coral Springs
Fred does much of his practice and preparation at Coral Springs, a key hub for RC racing in South Florida. Local tracks play a huge role in developing drivers and keeping the hobby growing. They’re where racers test setups, refine driving skills, and build the experience needed to perform at larger events like Homestead.
Supporting local racers and local tracks is something we strongly believe in. Strong communities lead to better racing, better competition, and more opportunities for everyone involved in the hobby.
Congratulations to Fred Rodriguez
From all of us at MAD Hobbies, congratulations to Fred Rodriguez on a well-earned 3rd place finish in the Nitro Sedan class at Homestead RC Raceway. It’s always rewarding to see racers succeed with equipment purchased from our shop, especially in such a competitive field.
Results like this highlight what’s possible with the right preparation, reliable equipment, and consistent driving. We’re proud to support racers like Fred and look forward to seeing what’s next.
If you’re interested in upgrading your nitro setup, learning more about the iRacing T04 engine, or preparing for your next race, stop by MAD Hobbies or reach out through our website. We’re always happy to help racers take the next step—whether that’s your first main event or your next podium finish.