RPW’s “The Ten” With LJ Lombardo

Column By: RYAN HILL / RPW – DANBURY CT – Modified driver LJ Lombardo straps in for today’s installment of RPW’s “THE TEN.” The 21-year-old driver out of Danbury, CT is on the verge of his freshman campaign on the high banks of Lebanon Valley Speedway.

LJ was able to pick up a win in each of his first two season in a Big Block Modified, and the former Orange County Fair Speedway Sportsman Track Champion is excited to race weekly at The Valley with his family owned #35 Teo Pro Car. He’s looking forward to the challenge ahead.

1- WHY ARE YOU THE #35?
I am # 35 because my grandfather Ed Lombardo owned a car at the old Danbury races, and his driver Snerd was #35.

2- WHAT TYPE OF RACECAR WOULD YOU LIKE TO DRIVE?
I would love to run the World of Outlaws Sprint Tour. I have always dreamed of that.

3- WHO WAS YOUR FAVORITE DRIVER GROWING UP?
Tim Fuller with the Smith Bros. #74 team.

4- WHAT IS YOUR PROUDEST RACING MOMENT?
When we won our first race in 2012 and I cut my dad’s hair in victory lane, it’s always a good laugh looking back at that.

5- WHAT RACE DO YOU WANT TO WIN THE MOST?
I would love to win the Eastern States 200. I grew up watching the best of the best run that show, and I think we have a shot at winning it soon.

6- WHAT IS A “BUCKET LIST” TRACK FOR YOU TO RACE AT?
I would have loved to run the Syracuse Mile, but I would have to go with Eldora Speedway now.

7- WHAT ARE YOUR STRENGTHS AS A DRIVER?
My strongest trait as a driver is my dedication. I haven’t had a full crew that can always be there to work on the car. Everyone has full time jobs, and they put in as much time as they can. I am usually in the shop until 2am and the back at 5am to get everything done.

8- WHAT IS YOUR WEAKNESS AS A DRIVER?
My budget. I think that if we had more backing behind us we would be able to run up front anywhere we go.

9- HOW DID YOU START RACING?
My whole family has been involved with racing. I started when I was three years old and never looked back.

10- HOW HAS RACING AFFECTED YOUR PERSONAL LIFE?
A lot. I have missed a ton of family vacations and nights out with friends and girlfriend, but I knew what I was getting into when I started. This is a full time job, and the support I get from the people who are closest to me is tremendous.