Demo Champ Says It's All About Putting On A Show For The Fans
Roger Artel - 1998 Demo Truck Champion

-by Lois Pollard-Grant

After competing for 12 years at the Langford Oval, the name on the hit-to-pass demo truck championship trophy belongs to Roger Artel.

Now 39, Roger has tried his hand at racing stock cars, ministocks, and old timers, and he appears to have found his niche in demo driving.

Topping off his championship year which included several clean sweeps and the most main event wins, he was voted by Lower Island Track Racing Association, as the most improved driver. As well he received the dubious honor for the Horses Ass Award.

"I think I know why I got that," Roger laughed. "Actually I collect those kind of awards."

While winning isn't everything to Roger, putting on a show for the fans is - "In demo racing that's what it's all about," he said.

Whether it be a friendly wave to the fans as he crosses the start - finish line, or getting in the middle of a track altercation, fans are guaranteed there is never a dull moment when "Rockin' Roger" is around.

He gives credit for his success to Ed Breuker (five time demo truck champion) "If it wasn't for Ed, there is no way I would of won the championship," he said (Ed had shown Roger how to set up his truck).

Roger is taking this year off in order to spend more time with his family - and to celebrate the birth of his first grandchild.

-as printed in the March 24, 1999 edition of the Goldstream News Gazette