FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   


JUNE 3, 2009


CONTACT: DICK JORDAN


 

TOLEDO .25 EVENT HONORS BOB NERVO

 



    This weekend’s USAC .25 Midget “Generation Next” Round 3 event in Toledo, Ohio honors the late Bob Nervo, whose contributions to the sport of quarter-midget racing were unparalleled.



    Racers from all over the country are expected to compete in the three-day extravaganza at the Lucas County Recreational Center, with practice Friday and racing Saturday and Sunday.



    A participant member in both the Akron and Toledo clubs, Nervo and his close friend Joe Coggins in 1993 formed Nervo/Coggin Racing, which is now NC Chassis Company to serve the industry. It was originally headquartered in an 8,000 square foot building in Tallmadge, Ohio, but Bob’s vision for what the sport needed was much larger. He wanted to provide a complete race shop where a family could make a call and find cars, parts and accessories in stock. In 1998 NC moved to its present 27,000 square foot facility.



    Bob Nervo was much more to quarter midget racers than a supplier. He was a good friend, always willing to assist with whatever needs they had and always offering encouragement along the way,



    In 1997 Bob created the JSCA, to provide a more professional atmosphere for the quarter midget racer. He spent countless hours organizing events, securing awards and contingencies and making sure each and every competitor left each event with some memento of his experience. His friendship with Indianapolis Motor Speedway owner Tony George and Hoosier Racing Tires’ Mike Allgaier helped develop a bridge between the sport of quarter midget racing and higher forms of the sport, such as the Indy Racing League.



    The inaugural JSCA race was indoors in Columbus, Ohio in 1997. Coupled with contingency support from Simpson Safety Equipment, racers were afforded the finest in safety wear and gear at affordable prices. The following year saw the debut of the famed “Gasoline Alley Nationals” at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, enjoying a run of nine years at the World’s Greatest Race course. Bob’s idea of creating a truly “National” championship had come full circle.



    In November of 2002, Bob suffered a fatal heart attack while attending an indoor race at the Ohio State Fairgrounds in Columbus. While his loss will be felt forever, his contributions will live on as a testament to his sincere love and devotion to the sport. His motto of honesty, integrity and accountability defined his character.



    The entire Nervo family was entrenched in quarter midget racing, including racing sons Rob, Mark and John, who actually competed on a regular basis in USAC’s National Midget series.



    This weekend’s Toledo competition is dedicated to his memory and to the everlasting impression he left on all who participate in the sport of quarter midget racing.


 


--USAC--