Reigning Champion Matt Galko Hopes to Raise the Bar in SK Modifieds
2-time Stafford SK Light Modified champion Matt Galko had a dream season in 2011. He won the track championship as a rookie in 2010. Galko improved during his sophomore season with a more consistent season to repeat as track champion. "Last season was really good," said Galko. "We accomplished everything we set out to do, it was great to win the championship once but to be the first driver in the SK Lights to do it back to back means the world to me."
Galko called the 2010 Fall Final his greatest career victory, where he regained the points lead with a victory in the season finale. He thanked his family and Tim Rowe for their efforts. It was great to have all the success in the SK Lights," said Galko. "It taught me a lot about Modified racing. I never drove a Modified before I drove in the Lights and being able to win the championship and Rookie of the Year in my first season was awesome. Coming back and winning the championship was even better. (It) meant a lot to my crew, my family and me because we worked so hard all through my racing career. … (It) meant the world to me to win one of the biggest races Stafford puts on."
On 2011 CARQUEST Fall Final weekend, Galko made his SK Modified debut, finishing 10th. "We had a great run at the Fall Final," said Galko "It was great being up to 6th at one point running right behind Teddy (Christopher) and Keith (Rocco). The motor we had in the car was 2 seasons old, so it was great to show we can do it with old equipment."
Galko, 18, of Meriden would like to run in the SK Modifeds full-time this year, pending sponsorship. His goals are to be consistent, gain experience and respect from the other drivers. "I would love to win Rookie of the Year, just like in the SK Lights. If we are lucky (to) be able to compete for a win by the end of the season."
"There is a lot to learn moving up into the SK division," said Galko. "You learn a lot from the Lights (to take to the) SK division, but it’s a whole nother world in those cars. The biggest adjustment is learning everyone’s driving styles again now that you’re with new people. The motor has more power so you have to be easier with the gas. … You just need seat time mostly to prepare yourself."
Sources: Nicholas Teto/YankeeRacer.com