Erik Thomas

About

Erik Thomas' influence on Canadian drag racing through his extraordinary achievements, contributions, and dedication to promoting the sport has been unparalleled. In the 1970s, while working in sports broadcasting in St. Catharines and Niagara Falls, Eric began announcing races at Merrittville, Ransomville, and Cayuga Speedways, laying the foundation for a career that would deeply impact Canadian motorsport.

Erik also served as a play-by-play announcer for the NHL's Toronto Maple Leafs. His connection to racing continued to grow as he became anchor, writer, and co-producer for Raceline Motorsport Television on TSN. In 1992, Erik's journey culminated in the launch of the Raceline Radio Network, Canada's only nationally syndicated motorsport radio program, which he helmed until his retirement in December 2023.

This 31-year program was the nation's primary broadcast entity covering drag racing, featuring in-depth interviews with icons such as Don Garlitz, John Force, and Shirley Muldowney. As the leader of Raceline Radio, Eric gave a voice to Canadian drag racing, previewing NHRA events, covering race results, and providing regular point-standing updates.

His dedication earned him numerous international awards and an induction into the Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame in 2020. Nearly five decades of broadcasting and an unmatched commitment to promoting drag racing make Erik Thomas a candidate of the Canadian Drag Racing Hall of Fame.