Former Top Sportsman team to compete with Corvette Pro Modified
HAMPTON, ONTARIO (April 29, 2010) – After a short season of racing in Top Sportsman, Rick Lojko decided to step up his efforts with a Pro Modified, and will compete in the Pro Modified Racing Association in 2010.
“I had the car out briefly in 2009,” he said, “and I thought we were ready. But there were a whole lot of issues, and it was decided we would start at ground zero with the car.”
The Tim McAmis Race Cars 1963 Chevrolet Corvette will be powered by a 526-cubic inch Alan Johnson engine, prepared by Pro Modified engine guru Mike Stawicki of MSR. A Bruno Automotive Products Lenco sits behind engine, and a DMPE – M5 supercharger sits atop the powerplant.
Lojko has raced on and off for several years, including time in a seven-second Top Sportsman car. A serious neck injury in 2007 left him out of the driver’s seat for close to two years.
By late 2009 he was ready to return to the drag strip. Lojko credits the success of his return to one of his sponsors, LifeMark Health, for their help in his 18-month rehabilitation and to allow him to return to the sport.
Lojko also wanted to thank his family, Tony Basso, Tony Lenti, Kevin Cooper, Len Basso and Serge Tourikian for encouraging him to return the sport. “Without the support of these individuals, I don’t think I would be racing today.”
The new car has received attention from Pro Modified car builders Jim Salemi at G-Force Race Cars and Jon Salemi of Resolution Racing Services, who have helped Lojko and his Sick Motorsports entry.
“Jim and Jon Salemi have been helping with the car,” he said. “The car has received a lot of upgrades. And they have provided the guidance that I needed. I really want to thank them.”
Crew chief for the Corvette is Tony Presto, and the rest of the team includes Tony Lenti, Kevin Cooper and Len Basso.Sponsors include LifeMark Health and Presto Auto Glass.
Lojko, who will be on hand for the PMRA season opener at the Cayuga Dragway of Toronto Motorsports Park in Cayuga, Ontario May 21-23 for the Victoria Day Weekend PMRA and Quick 32 Sportsman Series Challenge, said he will be taking his time with the new car, and not competing until he is ready.
“We will be testing for sure at Cayuga,” he said. “And if and when I feel comfortable I’ll be racing.”
