Thomas Merrill Makes Car Change at Sebring
February 26, 2022
Thomas Merrill will get behind the wheel of the #2 Bridgehaul/ HP Tuners Ford Mustang for the remaining of the Trans Am TA2 season opener at Sebring. In memory of his Mike Cope Racing teammate, Al Prieto, Merrill will run the Behind the Beats color scheme with Al’s name over the door.
“Al should be here this weekend,” said team owner, Mike Cope. “His loss has hit our team extremely hard, but we know this is what Al would want. He was the true definition of a team player, and his physical presence is missed at the track, but trust me, he will be in the seat with Thomas.”
Al Prieto passed away during the off season in a traffic accident. His loss has sent shock waves through our team, but through his passing we have gained a friendship in his oldest son, Alec.
“This is exactly what [my dad] would have wanted,” said Alec. “I’m honestly so happy. Go win it! Channel the spirit of my dad.”
And that is exactly what we plan to do.
The Trans Am presented by Pirelli TA2 main event is Sunday, February 27th at 1:00pm EST. Watch for FREE as Speedtour.TV streams LIVE on YouTube. Subscribe to www.youtube.com/thetransamseries to cheer on Thomas and the rest of the Mike Cope Racing team as we do it for Al!
#WinItForAl #MikeCopeRacing #CopeRaceCars #CopeChassis #GoTransAm #TA2
About Mike Cope Racing Enterprises, Inc:
Perhaps no other team has worked so diligently to achieve success over the course of 30 years as MCRE. Over the years, they have successfully launched corporate sponsorships in national series, developed short track and SCCA Road race champions and mentored young upcoming drivers. Lead by Mike Cope, he brings the same enthusiasm, dedication and knowledge to his race team that made him victorious in his own racing career.MCRE offers a variety of services for drivers interested in the Trans Am Series’ TA2 program, including custom builds, arrive and drive programs, maintenance programs, consulting, driver mentoring, set-up and shock dyno. Mike Cope Racing Enterprises is based in Clearwater, Florida. Learn more at www.mikecoperacecars.com.
Mike Cope Racing Enterprises partners include: Koury Engines, Keyser Manufacturing, FiveStar Race Car Bodies, Wilwood Brakes, Bassett Wheels, Penske Racing Shocks, Integra Racing Shocks, and Tilton.
Parties interested in the 2022 MCRE “Arrive and Drive” Program in TA2, or would like to purchase a Cope Race Cars Chassis can contact the team office at 727-201-8910 or email megan@mikecoperacecars.com
