by Mike Henry

With the tough economic times affecting many families in the San Francisco Bay Area, especially in Bay View Hunters Point, Gotelli Speed Shop has teamed up with drag racer Mike Henry and his Racing 4 Life program for a “Christmas Toy Drive.” There are a lot of families struggling to put food on the table, let alone having the money to buy a Christmas gift, so they’ll do their part to help a few out. The two have a long relationship, as Mike Henry has piloted his Gotelli Speed Shop-sponsored 1981 Camaro to numerous victories over the years, made guest appearances and has taken many disadvantaged youth to racing events.

The speed shop dates back to the 1960s when legendary top fuel drag racer Ted Gotelli Sr. owned the store before passing it on to his son Ted and grandson Joe. “We are offering to pay the sales tax on any purchase as long as the customer brings in a new unwrapped toy valued at $10 or more. This gives our customers a savings while giving a gift towards a great cause. We also have a lot of items on sale during the holidays, so come on in and talk to Joe, Mario or myself,” says Ted Gotelli.

“When I got the call about the toy drive I was really excited because I know how many kids won’t be getting anything for Christmas this year. So, to be able to have my Racing 4 Life program work with Gotelli Speed Shop is an honor. Ted is always helping out with as much as he can even in these tough times and that’s what Christmas is all about,” says Mike Henry.

The store is located at 321 El Camino Real, in South San Francisco. Visit them on the web at www.gotellispeedshop.com and www.mikehenryracing.com. You can also call the store at (650) 589-8616.

Mike Henry can be reached at racingmhd2@yahoo.com.