1970 – Introduction to Can Am

July 26, 1970

Klondike 200 Can Am, Edmonton International Speedway

Alberta, Canada

Lola T-70

Result: Qualified, but did not start race (engine)

I raced my first Can-Am car for owner Willy Nelli, who had a great looking Lola T70 Mk3B Spyder Can Am car (SL75/122). Willy was a female car owner in Can Am and later married famed Corvette racer Dick Guldstrand. I made two starts with the Lola, which brought me into a new opportunity to drive for Oscar Koveleski in Bruce McLaren’s 1969 Championship car.

My friend Vic Elford continued on with the Lola, I joined the newly formed Jerobee Mclaren PRDA team for 1971.

The Lola T-70 was a limited piece of machinery. Lots of big block power, but poor handling. By the way, Vic Elford also drove the car, his start in Can Am as well.

Vic Elford drives Nelli’s beautiful Lola T70 #SL75/122

Vic Elford collection

Adamowicz collection – Barry Tenin photo

Willy Nelli talks to Tony

Car owner Willy Nelli with her stopwatch

Adamowicz collection – Barry Tenin photo

September 13, 1970

Road Atlanta Can Am

Braselton, Georgia

Lola T70

Result: DNF

Adamowicz collection – Michael Keyser photo (autosportsltd.com)

Tony gloving up in the Lola

Adamowicz collection – Michael Keyser photo (autosportsltd.com)

Adamowicz collection

October 18, 1970

Laguna Seca Raceway Monterey Grand Prix

Salinas, California

McLaren M12

Result: 7th

My friend Lothar Motchenbacher, offered me an opportunity to drive his 2^nd McLaren Mk12, to run a two-car effort for Riverside and Laguna Seca. I was hooked on the big bore engines and the unlimited class of Can Am racing.