TORONTO, ON – For many involved in grassroots racing, the Southern Ontario Pro 4 Modified season doesn’t truly begin when the first green flag drops. For me, it officially starts each March at the Motorama Custom Car & Motorsports Expo presented by eBay Motors, in Toronto. While teams spend the fall and winter preparing for the season ahead, there’s something special about that show – the raw energy of horsepower under one roof and the shared love of the automobile. Motorama sends a clear message every year: let’s go racing!
Racers, fans, friends, and competitors all gather in one place, and for someone tied closely to the sport, the Racers’ Corral in the Gulf Race Fuels Racing Zone is the highlight of the weekend. The attention to detail in these race cars often goes unnoticed by the average attendee. Look closely, however, and many of these machines rival the finely restored classics displayed elsewhere in the show. The difference is that race cars aren’t rebuilt from factory manuals – they’re created from the imagination of someone working late nights in a one‑man shop, producing true mechanical works of racing art.
Although I spent several hours manning our booth, I made time to wander and admire the craftsmanship on display. Some of these cars are almost too nice to put on a race track and subject to the bumping and grinding of competition – at least in my opinion. One standout was a stunning black, V8, open‑wheel Modified. While talking with the driver and owner, he explained it was his father’s pride and joy, and it showed. The paint was better than what’s on my Silverado, the cockpit felt like something out of an Avro Arrow, and the engine bay was pure show‑quality.
I spoke with a young man who had built his own race car, and the pride in his voice was unmistakable. I hope to see him racing this summer. Several women racers were also on hand, proudly displaying their cars for the 2026 season.
The Southern Ontario Pro 4 Modified booth was a hive of activity throughout the show. Our 2025 points champion, Cliff Hodgkinson, had his car and his season awards on display. Also featured was the Best Appearing Car from our organization – Mike Baker’s beautifully prepared machine, which proved especially popular with kids eager to sit in the car for photos. Baker, entering just his second season with Pro 4, spent the weekend speaking with potential new drivers and car owners. His open‑wheel driving skills continue to improve, and he is quickly finding his stride.
Also on display was the No. 96 car of Josh Fera, who is entering his third Pro 4 season. Fera is a strong contender for victory this year, and his car captured Best Appearing Pro 4 Modified honors at Motorama.
For those unfamiliar with Pro 4 Modified racing, the organization is very much a family. With about 25 drivers, the group spans generations – from a 16‑year‑old to competitors well into their 70s. The average driver age is around 58, though make no mistake – the competition is fierce. Respectful driving is emphasized due to the open‑wheel nature of the cars, and the organization prides itself on a family atmosphere, complete with post‑race barbecues and camping. Each race night also includes bike giveaways for kids in the grandstand and a $50 cash draw for a lucky lady, thanks to our generous sponsors.
Pro 4 Modifieds have been part of Ontario racing for at least 50 years, but participation dipped to near extinction during the COVID era. Through the dedication of members such as Mark Lucas, Shannon Morris, and others, the group was rebuilt.
Recently, longtime Pro 4 racing elder Stan Pokupec expressed interest in racing again. Pokupec, a respected guru of the division, once raced on his 70th birthday and remains an inspiration through his knowledge and willingness to help anyone with a race car. His decades building, repairing, and driving four‑cylinder race cars across North America deserve recognition.
We hope to see Pokupec join us for special events this season, including VIP Night on June 27 at Flamboro Speedway, honoring our sponsors, and Memorial Night on August 1 at Flamboro – celebrating past drivers who contributed so much to the sport and the Pro 4 organization.
The Southern Ontario Pro 4 Modifieds typically run eight or nine races per year, as many members balance family and other commitments. Fans are always welcome to stop by; after each race we host a barbecue and present that night’s awards. Laughter and stories are guaranteed.
Organizations like this thrive thanks to tremendous sponsorship. The Southern Ontario Pro 4 Modifieds thank HearingLife, NAPA Brantford, Jim Bray Trailers, Jack Greedy Ltd., Sierra Excavating, Strodes, Our Kitchen Brantford, TEGS Tools, Pencar Brantford, Gintec Shade Technologies, Tiger Towing, C.W. Piano Movers, Hutches on the Beach, and series sponsor BCW Lumber, Plywood and Kitchens of Brantford.
To the fans, volunteers, and first responders who support racing every week, we thank you. When the Pro 4 Modifieds visit your track, please stop by, meet the drivers, and say hello – we support you as much as you support us.
For more information, visit SOMAPRO4.ca or contact Ken Mercer at kenmercer55@gmail.com.
Click HERE to view an interview with Ken Mercer at the 2026 Motorama show.
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