07/09/2025
Bruce Wilks’ 1931 Roadster is coming back to life! For the first time in nearly 60 years, it’ll hit the track once again—this time powered by a Ford 300ci inline-six and driven by Bruce’s son, Dave. You can catch it at Shannonville Motorsports Park on July 19–20 and St. Thomas Dragway on July 26–27, racing in the Nostalgia class.
Performance Improvements proudly sponsored Bruce back in the 1960s. He was a regular at tracks all over southern Ontario—one of those grassroots racers who made the local scene what it was: fast, fun, and full of heart. Growing up, I heard plenty of stories about Bruce’s car, but I only ever saw it tucked away in the garage, slowly buried under the stuff of everyday life.
Years later, after retiring, Bruce began restoring the Roadster himself—spending countless hours bringing it back, piece by piece, and dreaming of racing again. Sadly, he passed away before he could see it return to the strip. But his son Dave carried the torch, hauling the car 3,500 km to Calgary and finishing what his dad started.
Now, it’s coming home to Ontario.
If you remember Bruce, saw him race, or just want to be part of something special, come out and see the car run. We’d love to see you there.
Hope to see you at the track.
Sharon Wilks Shannonville Motorsports Park
St Thomas Dragway
Shannonville Motorspark https://www.facebook.com/bowestmotors/
