THUNDER BAY – With four cars ready to roll, John Trevisanutto is hoping his CRT racing team can take the Thunder City Speedway by storm this summer.
With just one week remaining until racing begins on May 14, Trevisanutto, the long-time owner of Halfway Motors, said the cars are ready to be put to the test at the track.
“The guys have worked all winter on the cars, and when I say all winter, I mean all winter. They’re ready to rock and roll,” Trevisanutto said on Tuesday night, unveiling the CRT vehicles at a sponsor appreciation dinner at the Superior Inn.
The team will compete in three race classes in 2025.
Kolby Reed will be behind the wheel in the No. 89 car, in the Midwest mod class. Veteran Tanner Henderson is moving up to the top class, with a refreshed, Canadian-made Millar engine powering his No. 40 car in the A-Mod class.
Nathan Henny, in the No. 35 car, will take on the street stock field each week in the Rock 94 car, and defending Hornet class rookie of the year Michael Shalley in the No. 8X car, will move up to the Midwest Mod class.
Racing is a passion, but it’s also a chance to give back to the community, Trevisanutto said.
“I guess, being involved with race cars, not only am I giving back, but I’m doing something that’s so much fun. It brings a lot of joy to the guys who are doing it. It’s a lot of work, as well. Our fan-base is incredible out there. Three to four thousand people a night come out there.”
Trevisanutto said any prize money the team accumulates this summer will be donated to Our Kids Count, another long-time passion of his, an organization that helps families in need with everything from improved life skills to counselling.
The goal on the track may be to win, but in the end, the team owner simply wants everyone involved to give it their best and enjoy the ride.
“The guys ask me, what are your expectations. I’ve said to them every year, ‘I want you to go out and have fun. I want you to enjoy yourself. Drive smart, drive safe. My expectations are if we get a win, that’s a bonus,” Trevisanutto said.
“I can tell you we’re not in it for the money.”
Over the last three seasons, the team has donated about $15,000 to Our Kids Count, an average of $5,000 a season.
Racing begins on May 14 at 6:30 p.m. and continues each Wednesday throughout the summer. Teams will be practicing on Wednesday night at the Speedway.
