Unsung Heroes Take Center Stage: Piston Technician Award Returns to Lime Rock Park

Recognizing the master craftspeople who make racing dreams possible

Behind every roaring engine and flawless lap at the Lime Rock Park Historic Festival are the true champions of the sport—the skilled technicians who work tirelessly in the background. These master craftspeople are the backbone of racing, using their expertise and dedication to keep vintage machines performing at their peak. Without their meticulous work and technical mastery, the racing glory we celebrate would simply be impossible.

The Piston Technician Award, presented by The Piston Foundation and Lime Rock Park, finally gives these essential professionals the spotlight they deserve. This prestigious recognition honors the individuals whose commitment, skill, and automotive expertise make historic racing possible.

Since its inception in 2022, the Piston Technician Award has celebrated excellence at the Lime Rock Historic Festival. Past honorees include Mike Marra of Automobile Associates in Canton, CT, Chris Kavaka of Vintage Racing Services in Stratford, CT, and Davin Lindy of Brown Brothers Racing in Salisbury, Connecticut. These outstanding technicians were nominated by the very shops, teams, drivers, and car owners who witness their exceptional work firsthand.

“Receiving the Piston Technician Award means a lot. It really goes out to all the crew guys, the mechanics, and drivers that keep us in this business. I really appreciate all of that and I appreciate the Piston Foundation for its efforts to keep this car culture alive.” Chris Kavaka

Each year’s trophy is as unique as the craftspeople it honors. This year’s award was designed and fabricated by automotive technology student Michael Samela from J.M. Wright Technical High School in Stamford, CT, part of the Connecticut Technical Education and Career System—a perfect symbol of the next generation following in these masters’ footsteps.

Join The Piston Foundation, Lime Rock Park, and the racers of Historic Festival 43 for a special pit lane ceremony at noon on Labor Day, Monday September 1st, as we present the 2025 Piston Technician Award to this year’s outstanding classic car technician.