Daytona Beach, FL. — October 16, 2026 — The American Superbike Racing Association (ASRA) today announced that Cole Varnes of Birdsboro, Pennsylvania, has been selected as the recipient of the ASRA Rising Stars Award. The honor recognizes the 15-year-old racer’s outstanding competitive performances in the ASRA series combined with the professionalism, focus, and character he has demonstrated away from the racetrack. As part of the award, ASRA will cover entry fees for any ASRA races Varnes wishes to enter during the 2027 season.
Varnes has quickly established himself as one of the top young talents in ASRA competition. Competing primarily in the Atlantic Region, he currently leads championship standings in multiple classes, including Lightweight GP Expert, GTL, Thunderbike, Lightweight Superbike, and the Overall Championship. His results come while racing against experienced club-level competitors on the East Coast. Earlier in his development he also posted strong results in flat track, including a District 6 Flat Track Championship in the 250 Class.
Beyond the stopwatch, ASRA officials and team members have noted Varnes’ maturity for his age. A sophomore at Exeter High School, he balances school responsibilities with a demanding race schedule while remaining a positive presence in the paddock. His family-supported effort—led in large part by his father, Mike Varnes—has been central to his progress from mini racing and flat track into competitive road racing. Sponsors and team partners, including Karns Performance, have repeatedly highlighted his work ethic, coachability, and respectful attitude.
“Cole represents exactly the kind of rider we want to recognize with the Rising Stars Award,” said Scott Gilbert with ASRA. “His speed on the track is obvious, but what sets him apart is how he carries himself off the bike—as a student, a teammate, and a young professional who takes the sport seriously. We’re excited to support him as he continues to develop in 2027.”
The entry-fee coverage gives Varnes the flexibility to race as much of the 2027 ASRA schedule as he chooses while continuing his progression academically. With his current form and rapid development.
Varnes has used the ASRA series as a key development platform while advancing toward professional competition. He recently made his MotoAmerica Twins Cup debut and continues to work toward further opportunities. The Rising Stars Award acknowledges both his current results and his potential as a future leader in American road racing.
Varnes has quickly established himself as one of the top young talents in ASRA competition. Competing primarily in the Atlantic Region, he currently leads championship standings in multiple classes, including Lightweight GP Expert, GTL, Thunderbike, Lightweight Superbike, and the Overall Championship. His results come while racing against experienced club-level competitors on the East Coast. Earlier in his development he also posted strong results in flat track, including a District 6 Flat Track Championship in the 250 Class.
Beyond the stopwatch, ASRA officials and team members have noted Varnes’ maturity for his age. A sophomore at Exeter High School, he balances school responsibilities with a demanding race schedule while remaining a positive presence in the paddock. His family-supported effort—led in large part by his father, Mike Varnes—has been central to his progress from mini racing and flat track into competitive road racing. Sponsors and team partners, including Karns Performance, have repeatedly highlighted his work ethic, coachability, and respectful attitude.
“Cole represents exactly the kind of rider we want to recognize with the Rising Stars Award,” said Scott Gilbert with ASRA. “His speed on the track is obvious, but what sets him apart is how he carries himself off the bike—as a student, a teammate, and a young professional who takes the sport seriously. We’re excited to support him as he continues to develop in 2027.”
The entry-fee coverage gives Varnes the flexibility to race as much of the 2027 ASRA schedule as he chooses while continuing his progression academically. With his current form and rapid development.
Varnes has used the ASRA series as a key development platform while advancing toward professional competition. He recently made his MotoAmerica Twins Cup debut and continues to work toward further opportunities. The Rising Stars Award acknowledges both his current results and his potential as a future leader in American road racing.
