Corky Coker, chairman of the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and president of Coker Tire Co., was honored recently with a “Wally” Lifetime Achievement Award at the 3rd annual Holley NHRA Hot Rod Reunion’s public reception.
The award, named for National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) founder Wally Parks, acknowledged Coker’s commitment to the preservation and expansion of the sport.
“Today, I’m honored to be a ‘car guy’,” said Coker. “SEMA was founded with wonderful companies like Holley, Edelbrock and Crain, who have worked closely with us to help ensure that we can continue to enjoy our cars as we always have.
"I urge hot rodders everywhere to take action to support their hobby and their sport so that future generations can experience the thrills, sights, and sounds we’ve come to love. In the face of legislation that seeks to regulate or curtail our sport, we cannot take anything for granted. We need to be vigilant and protect our rights.”
The award was presented at a reception at the Bowling Green Convention Center in Bowling Green, Ky., and was part of a weekend event that included a cruise night, memorabilia auction, “Show and Shine” and NHRA vintage drag racing.
