Tommy Ivo

Tommy Ivo (born April 18, 1936) is an American drag racer and actor. Ivo is primarily known for his innovative and flamboyant drag racing career, which spanned the 1950s through the 1980s.

Ivo began his career in the entertainment industry as a child actor, appearing in numerous television shows and films, often uncredited. However, he transitioned to drag racing as a teenager, quickly gaining notoriety for his showmanship and engineering ingenuity.

Ivo's most famous dragsters included a series of multi-engined cars, such as a four-engine "Showboat" Buick, which became a fan favorite due to its outlandish design and thrilling performances. He also campaigned successful Top Fuel dragsters and Funny Cars.

Beyond his technical prowess, Ivo was a skilled promoter who understood the importance of entertaining the crowds. His long hair, signature cowboy hat, and charismatic personality made him a popular figure at drag strips across the United States.

Ivo retired from professional drag racing in the 1980s but remains a beloved icon in the sport. He is often featured in drag racing documentaries and events, and his contributions to the sport have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including induction into the International Drag Racing Hall of Fame.