Registered Drivers 2026
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Sheridan Empey Car: 1990 Honda CRX Car #: 15 Class: MAX-5 Sheridan Empey has been competing in the Knox Mountain Hill Climb since 2001, piloting his meticulously prepared 1990 Honda CRX. Small in size but big in spirit, this red rocket delivers impressive performance with big aero, big energy, and even bigger commitment. Sheridan pushes it to the limit, carving corners and putting the power down with style and precision. He holds records in multiple classes, including Max 5 at 2:01.729, SP-1 at 2:03.099, and SPX-2 at 1:56.084. Always one of the first cars on the grid, Sheridan’s CRX has become a fan favorite. |
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Garrett Mealing Car: 1995 Eagle Talon Car #: 197 Class: UNLIMITED-2 Garrett Mealing has been competing in the Knox Mountain Hill Climb since 2015, piloting his 1995 Eagle Talon, “Sir Wingston.” Over the years, he’s faced his share of challenges, from an engine fire and a crash in Turn 9 to blown turbos and engine failures. But Garrett’s perseverance has paid off—he holds the Unlimited-2 record at 1:50.286 and the GT-M record at 1:51.154. With big aero, incredible grip, and a fearless driver at the wheel, Sir Wingston is truly a force to be reckoned with. Beyond racing, Garrett is also one of the dedicated volunteers whose hard work helps make this event a huge success. |
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Fred Del Pero Car: 1969 Alfa Romeo 1300 GTA Car #: 80 Class: GT-LITE Fred Del Pero is one of our longest-running drivers, and even after four decades, he continues to break records at the Knox Mountain Hill Climb. He competes in a super rare 1969 Alfa Romeo 1300 GTA and has held the GT-5 record since 2010 with an impressive 2:00.879, as well as the GT Lite record at 2:02.645. We’re excited to welcome Fred back as he participates for the 41st time in 2026. |
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Kevin Wall Car: 1989 Honda Crx Car #: 3 Class: TBD Kevin Wall will be returning to Knox Mountain after a two-year hiatus, piloting his 1989 Honda CRX with hopes of breaking his SPX-1 record of 2:04.968, set in 2023. Kevin has been competing in the Knox Mountain Hill Climb since 2015 and continues to push his car and skills to the limit. |
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Aaron Nijjar Car: 2007 Subaru Wrx Sti Car #: 66 Class: UNLIMITED-1 Aaron Nijjar of Boost Barn Motorsports made his debut at the legendary Knox Mountain Hill Climb in 2025, finishing 7th overall and 4th in class with a scorching time of 1:51.363 in his wild 2007 Subaru STI. Equipped with serious horsepower and an XShift sequential gearbox, Aaron didn’t just compete—he made a statement, setting the fastest trap speed of the event at 181 km/h. We can’t wait to see more of this powerhouse on the mountain in 2026! |
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Basil Santamaria Car: 2004 Subaru STI Car #: 100 Class: UMLIMITED-1 Basil Santamaria charged up the mountain at the 2025 Knox Mountain Hill Climb, laying down a blistering 1:50.401 run—a new personal best. The impressive time secured 6th overall and 3rd place in the Unlimited 1 class. Behind the wheel of his 2004 Subaru STI, Basil pushed both driver and machine to the limit, perfectly showcasing what Boost Barn Motorsports is all about: power, precision, and performance. We’re excited to see what time Basil and his incredible Subaru will post in 2026! |
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Joshua Rothenburger Car: 1995 Nissan 240sx Car #: 17 Class: MAX-1 Josh Rothenburger impressed fans in his 2025 Knox Mountain Hill Climb debut, making a strong statement in his rookie outing. Sharing the wheel of the 1993 BMW 325is with co-driver and car owner Don Smith, Josh posted an impressive 2:02.199 run—just 0.067 seconds shy of Don’s best time. With a new build already underway for 2026, we’re excited to see what Josh can do behind the wheel of his freshly built 1995 Nissan 240SX. |
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Frank Ewald Car: 1992 Nissan NX 1600 Car #: 259 Class: MAX-3 Frank Ewald has been competing at the Knox Mountain Hill Climb since 2017, driving his Honda K24–swapped 1992 Nissan NX 1600. In 2024, Frank delivered an impressive personal best run of 2:02.652, placing 16th overall. Beyond his on-course performance, Frank is also one of our most dedicated volunteers, working tirelessly each year to help ensure the Knox Mountain Hill Climb is a success. Thank you, Frank, for everything you do to make Knox Mountain such a special event! |
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Michael Patora Car: 1998 Honda Civic Car #: 98 Class: MAX-4 Michael Patora put the power down at the 66th Leavitt Machinery Knox Mountain Hill Climb. Piloting his sharp-looking 1998 Honda Civic, Michael laid down an impressive 2:06.320, earning 31st overall and 2nd place in the Max 4 class. A strong showing on the mountain and clear proof that this Civic is built to climb.and 2nd in the Max 4 class. A strong showing on the mountain and proof that this Civic is built to climb! Looking forward to what Micheal does in 2026! |
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Matt Sinfield Car: 1998 Honda Civic Car #: 221 Class: MAX-2 Matt Sinfield made his Knox Mountain Hill Climb debut in 2024, piloting his 1998 Honda Civic fitted with a massive rear wing. In 2025 Matt posted an impressive time of 2:02.431, earning 20th overall in his second appearance on the mountain. An avid racer, he competes in numerous events across British Columbia and Alberta. We look forward to seeing Matt return to the hill in 2026. |
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Josh Vandekerkhove Car: 1972 Porsche 914 Car #: 72 Class: Unlimited 1 Josh Vandekerkhove is a familiar name at the Knox Mountain Hill Climb, having competed in 2008, 2009, 2010, 2013, and 2014. His standout performance came in 2013, when he claimed the coveted King of the Hill title in a tube-chassis VW Rabbit with a blistering time of 1:54.661. After a 12-year hiatus, Josh is set to return to the mountain in the Unlimited 1 class, bringing a new purpose-built 1972 Porsche 914. His return marks one of the most anticipated appearances on the hill. |
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Norm Hayton Car: 2006 Honda Civic Car #: 85 Class: Tuner 4 Norm Hayton charges back to the Leavitt Machinery Knox Mountain Hill Climb in his giant-killing 2006 Honda Civic. Making his fourth appearance on the mountain, Norm is once again hunting for an even faster run and looking to push the T4 record he already owns. His personal best of 2:02.646, set in 2024, is a stunning result from a near-stock car and proof that driving skill can trump horsepower at Knox Mountain. |
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Richard Arienzale Car: 1998 Dodge Viper Car #: 51 Class: Ultimate 1 Richard Arienzale first took on the Knox Mountain Hill Climb in 2017, piloting a Dodge Neon and recording a personal best of 2:12.007. This year, Richard returns to the mountain in a dramatic new machine—a 1998 Dodge Viper—competing in the Ultimate 1 class. A big step up in power and presence, his return adds even more excitement to the hill. |
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Greg Cavouras Car: TBD Car #: 113 Class: Sport 1 Greg Cavouras and his stunning 2004 Corvette are the definition of fast and consistent. Since debuting at the Leavitt Machinery Knox Mountain Hill Climb in 2022, Greg has been a front-runner every year, setting class records in 2023 and again in 2025 with a blistering 1:52.489. With a perfect streak of top-10 overall finishes, this car-and-driver combination is truly dialed in. |
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Michael Marich Car: 2015 Porsche GT3 Cup Car #: 88 Class: Unlimited 1 Michael Marich has been a strong presence at the Knox Mountain Hill Climb, competing from 2014 through 2017 in his Swift DB1 Formula Ford. During that run, he finished an impressive 2nd overall twice, in 2014 and 2016, and 3rd overall in 2017. Michael returns to the hill this year in a 2015 Porsche GT3 Cup, bringing proven pace and experience back to the mountain. |
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Kees Nierop Car: 1972 Datsun 280Z Car #: 725 Class: Vintage Kees Nierop brings an extraordinary racing résumé to the Knox Mountain Hill Climb, with experience spanning Sebring, Daytona, IMSA, endurance racing, and even the Trans-Siberia Rally—most often behind the wheel of a Porsche. This year, he returns to the hill in a beautifully prepared Datsun 280Z, competing in the Vintage class. Rebuilt from the ground up for the 1998 event, this car is no stranger to Knox Mountain. |
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Jennifer Ocker Car: 2004 Subaru STI Car #: 72 Class:Unlimited 1 Jennifer Ocker has been competing at the Knox Mountain Hill Climb since 2019, driving her 2004 Subaru STI. A five-time Queen of the Hill winner, she returns this year looking to defend the title for a sixth consecutive time! In 2025, Jennifer set a personal best of 1:54.717, earning an impressive 10th overall. Consistently fast and fiercely competitive, Jennifer remains one of the top drivers on the mountain. |
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Bobbie Phinney Car: 1934 Chevy Legend Car #: 7 Class: Legends Bobbie Phinney makes his Knox Mountain Hill Climb debut in 2026 behind the wheel of a 1934 Chevy Legend car. An active racer at Mission Raceway, Bobbie competes in both Legend cars and a Citation Pinto open-wheel car. While new to the mountain, his experience on the track promises a competitive first run. We’re excited to see Bobbie tackle the twists and turns of Knox and add his name to the hill climb’s growing roster of talented drivers. |
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Gordon Phinney Car: 1937 Ford Sedan Legend Car #: 09 Class: Legends Gordon Phinney makes his Knox Mountain Hill Climb debut with brother Bobbie in 2026 behind the wheel of a 1937 Ford Sedan Legend car. A seasoned competitor at Mission Raceway, Gordon has raced both Legend cars and a Mazda RX-8, bringing a wealth of experience to the mountain. While new to Knox, his track record promises an exciting first run. We’re looking forward to seeing Gordon push his Legend car to the limit on the hill climb. |
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Charles Andre Car: 1982 Renault R5 Le Car Car #: 10 Class: Unlimited 2 Charles Andre is a retired stuntman and stunt driver with past experience running the Knox Mountain Hill Climb. He has previously tackled the hill in a Pontiac Trans Am, recording a 2:13.011 run in 2014. Charles returned to the event in 2025 behind the wheel of his beautifully prepared 1982 Renault R5 Le Car, posting a time of 2:21.06. His return adds a unique mix of experience and character to the mountain. |
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Sherry Anthony Car: 2006 Nissan 350Z Car #: 002 Class: Tuner 3 Sherry Anthony returns for her fourth year at the Leavitt Machinery Knox Mountain Hill Climb, continuing to establish herself as a driver to watch. In 2025, she set a new personal best, finishing the weekend with a 2:06.146 run in her 2006 Nissan 350Z. With each season on the mountain, Sherry’s confidence and pace continue to grow, making her one of the event’s most exciting returning competitors. |
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Gayle Baird Car: 1991 Honda Civic Car #: 75 Class: Legacy 2017 Queen of the Hill Gayle Baird continues to be a familiar and welcome presence at the Leavitt Machinery Knox Mountain Hill Climb. Once again, she’ll be piloting her 1991 Honda Civic in pursuit of hill climb glory. Gayle took up racing after retiring—deciding it was far more exciting than learning to knit. We’re always happy to have her back and can’t help but wonder if a Formula Vee run is in her future. |
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Wayne Goodwin Car: 1934 Ford Legend Car #: 94 Class: Legends Wayne Goodwin makes his Knox Mountain Hill Climb debut in 2026 behind the wheel of his 1934 Ford Legend. As part of a growing group of Legend cars taking on the mountain this year, Wayne adds even more excitement to the field. These compact, high-energy machines promise thrilling runs, and it’s going to be exciting to watch them rip their way up Knox Mountain. |
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Richard Jacyna Car: 1990 Mazda Miata Car #: 34 Class: Tuner 5 Richard Jacyna of Penticton, British Columbia returns to Knox Mountain for his 22nd appearance, making him one of the event’s true veterans. He’ll be driving the #34 1991 Mazda Miata, equipped with Spec Miata suspension and a nearly stock engine. A Targa Newfoundland competitor, Richard brings serious road-racing experience to the hill. His best Knox time is a 2:16, set in a 1991 Honda Civic. |
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Kyle Krunick Car: 2003 Acura RSX Car #: 17 Class: Max 5 Kyle Krunick made his Knox Mountain Hill Climb debut in 2025 behind the wheel of the Double Cheeseburger Racing 2003 Acura RSX. In his first KMHC appearance, Kyle posted a solid 2:18.327 run and gained valuable experience on the mountain. With a full year under his belt, he returns focused on improving his personal best. We’re excited to see Kyle continue to build speed and confidence at Knox. |
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Scott Lohnes Car: 1937 Chevrolet Legend Coupe Car #: 77 Class: Legends Scott Lohnes joins the Legends class in 2026, making his Knox Mountain Hill Climb debut behind the wheel of his 1937 Chevrolet Legend Coupe. New to the mountain but ready for the challenge, Scott adds to the growing Legends presence at this year’s event. These classic-bodied machines always deliver exciting runs, and Scott’s first charge up Knox is going to be one to watch. |
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Gary Lohues Car: 1985 Toyota Corolla Car #: 86 Class: Legacy Gary Lohues of Calgary, Alberta returns to the Knox Mountain Hill Climb for his ninth appearance. Driving his #86 1985 Toyota Corolla in the Legacy class, Gary brings a wealth of experience to the mountain. A three-time WCMA GT3 Champion (2007, 2011, and 2014), he continues to push the pace, setting a personal best of 2:03.343 at last year’s event. |
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David Neveaux Car: 1937 Chevrolet Sedan Legend Car #: 101 Class: Legacy David Neveaux brings over 20 years of Knox Mountain Hill Climb experience to the event, making him a true mountain veteran. His FL-class Legend car is heavily modified, featuring front and rear wings, a big-bore Yamaha FJ1250 engine, and stripped-down bodywork. David’s best time of 1:55.344 was set in 2015. A longtime fan favorite, his commitment to the sport and this mountain is second to none. |
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Gloria Romain Car: 2005 Mazda RX8 Car #: 764 Class: S6 Gloria Romain makes her Knox Mountain Hill Climb debut in 2026 behind the wheel of her 2005 Mazda RX-8. New to the mountain, Gloria brings fresh energy and excitement to the field. While we don’t have a picture of her car yet, we’re sure it will be turning heads over the May long weekend. We’re thrilled to see Gloria take on the twists and turns of Knox for the first time! |
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Larry Sandham Car: 1978 Mini Vauxhall Car #: 31 Class: Legacy Larry Sandham needs no introduction—a true racing legend! He first raced the Leavitt Machinery Knox Mountain Hill Climb in 1975, and 2026 marks his 51st year of racing and 45th time at Knox. Larry returns in his tube-frame Vauxhall-powered Clubman Mini, packing 295 horsepower into just 1,400 pounds, with a fastest-ever hill time of 1:59.925. Don’t miss the chance to see this incredible car and driver in action over the May long weekend! |
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Roger Sieber Car: 2017 UBUILT Hayaboostacar Roadster Car #: 83 Class: FL Roger Sieber and the JGVNR Rally Team return to Knox Mountain in his one-off custom Hayaboostacar, continuing to deliver relentless performances year after year. After three straight overall podium finishes from 2022 to 2024, Roger secured 4th overall in 2025 with a strong 1:49.376 run. This car-and-driver combination never disappoints, and Roger’s consistency, dedication, and sportsmanship make him a true standout. It’s always an honour to watch him fly up the hill. |
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Ken Staples Car: Dodge Neon Car #: 19 Class: S2 Ken Staples has been part of the Knox Mountain Hill Climb since 1974, showcasing decades of dedication to the event. Over the years he’s competed in an incredible variety of machinery, from a Sunbeam Tiger (best of 2:00.812) and Alfa Romeo GTV to a V8 Datsun 240Z, Nissan 300ZX, Honda Integra, Spec Miata, Dodge Neon, and rotary-powered Mazda RX-7. Ken’s long history and ever-evolving rides make him a true Knox veteran. |
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Wade Hamilton Car: 1992 Honda Civic Car #: 92 Class: M4 Wade Hamilton returns for his fifth year at the Leavitt Machinery Knox Mountain Hill Climb, and his progress has been remarkable. In his debut, he powered his 1993 Honda Civic to a 2:09.925. By 2023, he had slashed that time to an impressive 2:03.283. Now, Wade has his sights set on breaking the two-minute barrier. With his steady improvements, we think he can do it — do you? |
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Amanda Schuffels Car: 1993 Honda Civic Car #: 14 Class: M4 Amanda Schuffels has been competing at the Knox Mountain Hill Climb since 2022 in her 1993 Honda Civic. A dedicated racer, she’s been active in autocross since 2017, steadily sharpening her skills behind the wheel. In 2025, Amanda set a personal best at Knox with an impressive 2:10.302. Known for her consistency and competitive spirit, she’s become a fan favorite and a familiar face on the mountain each May. |
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Anthony Rehlinger Car: 1995 Ford Mustang Car #: 52 Class: M1R Long-time Hill Climb volunteer Anthony Rehlinger returns to race his glorious-sounding 1995 Mustang Cobra R. After first spectating in the 1970s, he began building the car around 2010—swapping a blown 4.6 V8 for a 500-horsepower 5.8-litre V8. The result is seriously quick, with a best of 1:58.212 set in 2015 in SP-4. Thanks for all you do, Anthony, and good luck this year! |
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Allen Reid Car: 1970 MG MGB GT V8 Car #: 23 Class: U1 After a five-year hiatus, Allen Reid made a triumphant return to the 66th Leavitt Machinery Knox Mountain Hill Climb, bringing back his unmistakable #23 MGB GT V8. With four King of the Hill titles to his name, Allen remains a true legend of the mountain. In 2025, he drove to 11th place, posting a 1:54.860—reminding fans why he’s been a favorite for decades. Great to have you back, Allen! |
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Greg Petroski Car: 2001 Subaru Impreza Car #: 99 Class: Max 2 Greg Petroski storms up the hill in his 2001 Subaru Impreza, continuing to push for faster times each year. In 2025, his hard work paid off with a new personal best of 1:54.520. Greg has been steadily developing the aero package on his car, and the improvements are clearly delivering results on the mountain. With growing confidence and performance to match, he’s one to watch this year at Knox. |
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Steve Percival Car: 1971 Datsun 1200 Car #: 483 Class: U 2 Steve Percival has been a consistent presence at the Leavitt Machinery Knox Mountain Hill Climb since making his racing debut in 2022 in his Honda Civic. Steve will be bringing a new build to the hill this year, a 1971 Datsun 1200. In 2025, he set a personal best of 2:12.764 and is determined to push even faster this year. We are excited to see Steve’s new car run the hill! |
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Andre Marziali Car: 1999 BMW E36 M3 Car #: 96 Class: U 1 Andre Marziali and his incredible 1999 BMW E36 M3 are back again at the Leavitt Machinery Knox Mountain Hill Climb! Long regarded as one of the fastest tin-top cars to tackle the mountain—though that roof might now be carbon fibre—Andre’s M3 is always a thrill to watch. He’s stood on the podium five times in the past decade, including capturing King of the Hill honours in 2018. Best of luck, Andre! |
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Justine Boyer Car: 1991 Mazda Miata Car #: 7 Class: Tuner 5 Justine Boyer returns for her fourth year at the Knox Mountain Hill Climb in her beautifully prepared 1991 Mazda Miata. She continues to build confidence on the mountain and has recorded a personal best of 2:21.679. We’d also like to thank Justine and her business partner Kyle for their tremendous support of the event through Classified Motorsports—events like this simply wouldn’t be possible without the backing of dedicated local businesses like yours! |
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Bob Boyer Car: 1969 Datsun 510 Car #: 77 Class: Ulimited 1 Bob Boyer is a longtime participant (since 1987) and proud supporter of the Knox Mountain Hill Climb. Piloting his V8-powered 1969 Datsun 510—expertly built by Classified Motorsports—Bob continues to impress on the mountain. In 2025, he laid down an outstanding 1:58.726, proving this classic machine has serious pace. And the sound? Absolutely amazing. When Bob’s 510 charges up the hill, you hear it—and feel it. |
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Scott Hulan Car: 1991 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 1LE Car #: 125 Class: S5 Scott Hulan returns to the Knox Mountain Hill Climb with plenty of experience on and off the course. A past competitor in a Dodge Neon, Scott is no stranger to the mountain. When he’s not behind the wheel, he’s been a dedicated corner worker volunteer, helping keep the event running safely and smoothly. This year, he’ll take on the hill in his 1991 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 1LE. Good luck, Scott! |
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Cam Thorkelson Car: 1998 Caterham Super 7 Car #: 38 Class: SR Cam Thorkelson is a true veteran of the Knox Mountain Hill Climb, returning for what we believe is his 28th run in 2026. Many fans will remember his beautiful Datsun, but in recent years he’s campaigned a 1998 Vauxhall-powered Caterham. Cam achieved his personal best in 2022 with a blistering 1:57.556, breaking the magic two-minute barrier. A seasoned competitor and fan favorite, Cam’s experience always makes him one to watch. |
