Elvis Stojko, the three-time World Champion and two-time Olympic silver medalist, is making a remarkable transition from figure skating to motorsport at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park. As the morning heat envelops the pit lane, Stojko prepares to test the sleek, brightly colored Revolution race car that has captured attention among the rumbling engines of the track.
Despite the grueling conditions, Stojko exhibits the same calm, focused energy he brought to the Olympic ice. "It's an open track day," he remarked while taking a break, his helmet resting under his arm and his fire suit drenched with sweat. He explained that he was testing setups for the racing season and expressed gratitude that the track is just minutes from his home, feeling a sense of connection to the location.
Stojko is serious about racing. "I don’t do things for hobbies," he emphasized. "This, for me, is passion." He elaborated that his commitment to motorsport is on a level that transcends mere enjoyment. Racing, he stated, fills his soul and mirrors the competitiveness that has defined his life. However, with passion comes financial challenges. Stojko revealed that he has invested heavily in his racing career, even re-mortgaging part of his house to finance his entry into the sport. Despite the monetary burden, he carries no regret, showcasing a determination that has characterized his journey.
His journey into racing began when he crossed paths with Steffen Rilli of Rilli Racing, who recognized Stojko's potential as a driver. Stojko's first test in a racing car showcased his ability to adapt quickly; in just 20 minutes, he found his rhythm. This opportunity snowballed into a debut competition at Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium, where he not only participated in a car he had never driven before but also climbed onto the podium and set the fastest lap. Stojko attributed his success to the skills honed during his skating career, such as discipline, visualization, and commitment.
Despite the initial successes, Stojko acknowledges the challenges of advancing to the next level in racing, specifically, the International Motor Sports Association (IMSA). "Getting to the next level... takes backing," he stated, emphasizing the importance of sponsorships and partnerships to progress in the sport. He believes that his journey is about more than racing; it is about applying the lessons learned from his athletic career to a new arena. He is optimistic that people are beginning to recognize his potential in motorsport.
Stojko's commitment to the sport has not gone unnoticed. After his impressive performance at Spa, Revolution Racing named him their official ambassador in Canada, which has opened new opportunities for him. However, he remains realistic about the costs involved: "The big thing is dollars and cents. Racing is expensive." He seeks partnerships with Canadian brands that want to join him on his journey. He emphasizes that his story transcends racing victories; it is about an athlete's journey from one sport to another.
Looking ahead, Stojko is set to compete in the Formula Prototype Challenge at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park on September 20 and 21, where he welcomes fans to witness his practice sessions. After this event, he will shift his focus to the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, scheduled for November, aiming to showcase his skills on one of North America's premier racing tracks.
As he gears up on the track, the roar of the Revolution car cuts through the heat like a clarion call. When he rockets down the straightaway, it's evident that the sacrifices—financial and otherwise—have crystallized into a singular truth: Elvis Stojko is not merely racing; he is demonstrating the power of passion intertwined with perseverance.
