We can say with certainty that for within Canada — this Toronto-based racer has driven more Pro Mod cars then anyone else!…….
And that’s a passion and a commitment you can’t help but commend.
Raymond Commisso, who is a very successful restaurant owner and businessman, has throughout his career demonstrated some very real singularity within his brand of drag racing while owning and driving various and nothing but — supercharged fast door cars.
And with and because of that, Commisso’s reputation as arguably Canada’s most famous Pro Mod driver has real merit. His career event wins have come at some of the highest circuit levels – including NHRA – IHRA and NMCA.
After he decided to take the next step up from Pro Street car racing in the very early 2000’s — he hasn’t really looked back — now two decades later – that desire remains.
“I pretty much loved them all (cars) – they were all special in one way or another,” Raymond reflected. “I guess it’s kind of like when you have kids – you can’t pick a favourite child.”
“These class of cars have tech that is ever evolving and it’s been great being able to witness and be part of all that,” he added. “In fact for all that there is a direct relationship and partnership with Al Billes throughout. Having Al behind me with all his wizardry and cutting edge parts, along with the enduring support of my brother (Claudio), Ralph Andreaachi, Cole Metheral and Harry Hibbs — that is what has kept me always motivated.”














While Raymond’s career progression is chock full of positives and highlights — there has also been some bumps along the way – and we mean that quite literally — Commisso and drag racing fate have had some nasty interactions.
“There is no doubt I’ve had some mishaps within my journey,” Ray admits. “If you get into one of these cars without thinking that a crash can happen – you should not be sitting in the car. I’ve had my moments – but from every incident I’ve learned from the experience. Some were due to mechanical issues and some — I just should have been smarter. These Pro Mod cars will take you to the edge and will get the best of you quickly — and when that happens you are just along for the ride. The only remedy after experiencing that is to teach yourself – learn what to do and what not to do. I am a much better and more confident driver now.”
While the lineup of “Commisso Cars” (above) is impressive – it is far from the end. Raymond Commisso and his racing partner Ralph Andreaachi will continue on in 2021 – with both a short term and long term plan being envisioned.
Ray will be the designated driver for Ralph’s very potent Camaro in 2021 and will compete that car exclusively within Canada at drag strips in Ontario and Quebec. Raymond does have a 2nd — all new Camaro — which is now finished construction from Bickel Race Cars. That Camaro is destined for NHRA’s E3 Spark Plugs Pro Mod Series racing – but because of COVID border restrictions – it will remain in the USA and its start date for that circuit racing is presently deferred.
Posted by Bruce Biegler
Photos by Bruce Biegler, Dave DeAngelis, Phil Hutchison & Patrick Harrington
While in the GTA visit and support Raymond’s excellent Dimmi Trattoria restaurant : HERE