Parker DeLong Joins Mike Cope Racing in 2023
February 16, 2023
Former kart champion, Delong, sets sight on Trans Am TA2 Rookie of the Year title
Clearwater, FL (February 13, 2023)— At five years of age Parker Delong knew what he wanted to be when he grew up… a professional race car driver. A short nine years later, at only 14 years old, the young talent is well on his way to his dream as he joins Mike Cope Racing for the 2023 Trans Am presented by Pirelli Big Machine Spiked Coolers TA2 season.
From jet skis to dirt bikes, legends cars to late models if there was the ability to race it, leave it to Parker to strap in and get it done. A five-time IKF Grands National Champion and Vice Champion at the World Championships in Italy, Delong is ready to take the next step in his racing career with a move to TA2 as he straps into his #42 Bridgehaul/ Cope Race Cars/ Ford Mustang in 2023.
“With a road racing background [the Trans Am TA2 series is] a great place to continue to learn, hone in on my racing skills, and provide myself with the opportunity to advance on a larger stage,” stated the 14 year old Delong.
Parker and his father, Bill, have been working hard and are determined to chase Parker’s goals for becoming a professional.
When an opening presented itself under the Mike Cope Racing banner for the 2023 season, Bill took that as a sign. He knew where Parker needed to be.
“Our goal for 2023 is growth,” said Bill Delong. “The rookie of the year honors and the young gun award are definitely within our grasp and are attainable with the talent of Parker and the knowledge and preparedness that Mike Cope Racing and Cope Race Cars bring to the table. Parker is working hard to chase his dream and TA2 is the next step in the chase. Parker and I look forward to a great 2023.”
Owner of Mike Cope Racing Enterprises, Inc. and Cope Race Cars, Mike Cope, is excited to have a new young talent under the tent for the upcoming season.
“Parker Delong and the other young racers in the field are receiving the opportunity of a lifetime from Tony Parella and the Trans Am organization by being allowed to compete at 14 years old,” stated Cope. “I believe if Parker keeps his nose clean, he’ll show the racing community big things.”
The season opener for the Trans Am presented by Pirelli Big Machine Spiked Coolers TA2 series is February 23rd to the 25th at Sebring International Raceway in Sebring, FL. Practice and Qualifying are set for Friday, February 24th with the main event on Saturday, February 25th at 12:45pm ETS. Watch LIVE as Speedtour.TV streams on YouTube. Subscribe to www.youtube.com/thetransamseries or www.youtube.com/speedtourtv to cheer on Parker Delong in his #42 Bridgehaul/ Cope Race Car and the entire Mike Cope Racing team of drivers!
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About Mike Cope Racing Enterprises, Inc:
Perhaps no other team has worked so diligently to achieve success over the course of 30 years as MCRE. Over the years, they have successfully launched corporate sponsorships in national series, developed short track and SCCA Road race champions and mentored young upcoming drivers. Lead by Mike Cope, he brings the same enthusiasm, dedication and knowledge to his race team that made him victorious in his own racing career. MCRE offers a variety of services for drivers interested in the Trans Am Series’ TA2 program, including custom builds, arrive and drive programs, maintenance programs, consulting, driver mentoring, set-up and shock dyno. Mike Cope Racing Enterprises is based in Clearwater, Florida. Learn more at www.mikecoperacecars.com.
Mike Cope Racing Enterprises partners include: Keyser Manufacturing, FiveStar Race Car Bodies, Wilwood Brakes, ProMotor Engines, Bassett Wheels, Ultimate Performance, Swift Springs and Tilton.
Parties interested in the 2023 MCRE “Arrive and Drive” Program in TA2, or would like to purchase a Cope Race Cars Chassis can contact the team office at 727-201-8910 or email megan@mikecoperacecars.com
